Complications

Hi Gracie. Sorry to read your dad is having such a rough time. I did not have the bowel hernia complication but I did have the joint leak and severe chest infection. The joint leak in my case took about 6 weeks to heal and I understand this is about normal. During this period I had  a series of CT scans which required me to drink water during the scan. This is the method of detecting the severity of the leak.  The infection also caused severe coughing. I had my operation nearly 2 years ago at the age of 80. I am now fit and healthy. I know you are extremely worried and every case is different but there are similarities in your dad's case to my own. I do hope you see some improvement soon and wish your dad all the best.

I’m very sorry that things have not gone smoothly for your Dad. I hope things can be resolved soon ….. I know that leaks are a risk and take some time to heal. Wishing your Dad an improvement very soon. 
G x

Hi, thank you for your reply. Were you in hospital the whole 6 weeks until it healed? It’s really good to hear a positive outcome this is what we need at the moment! x

My timetable went as follows. Discharged from hospital 9 days after operation and apparently ok. Then 9 days at home coughing and vomiting and zero nutrition. Now 2 stones down in a week ! Back to hospital and had PICC line nutrition for 5 days. Then had NJ tube fitted . Discharged home after 11 i.e 6 days after tube fitted by endoscopy. Then a further 5 weeks at home with NJ tube feeding. Took antibiotics for a total of about 8 weeks. As  I said previously I had a succession of CT scans during this period. This morning I have been out in my garden in France with a chainsaw for an hour so I am now either fit or completely as mad as my wife thinks I am. Stay in touch.

It’s scary all that can happen after seemingly being well enough to be discharged. I’m so glad to hear you are doing well now!