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Had Spinal Surgery. Not Able To Pass Motion. Now What Should Be Done?

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Posted on Wed, 19 Dec 2012
Question: Hello My son two weeks ago had a 3 part fussion S1 L5 L4 with one direct decompress and one indirect decompress. We see the Dr. on Monday in one day. FIrst time since surgery. Problem cant poop. I can only due so many glus suppositories. Soup, with noodles or rice in it he has to eat. Weights 260 lbs. 28 yrs old. We are going on day three of not pooping. Last time it was hard and hurt like oh well. This pain is unreal.
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Answered by Dr. Abhijit Deshmukh (14 minutes later)
Hi
It is fairly common problem after spinal surgery compounded by analgesic causing worsening of constipation.
Following things will help,
1) increase water intake to 3 -4 liters a day
2) Increase dietary fiber intake with fruits, salads.
3) Can give him liquid paraffin 15 - 20 ml thrice a day
4) Can apply local lignocaine jelly before pooping.
5) Still having constipation then medications like laxative, enema or suppositories may be necessary consulting a physician.
Hope this answers your query.
Please do reply in case of any further questions.
Wish you a speedy recovery.
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Abhijit Deshmukh

Gastroenterologist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 597 Questions

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Had Spinal Surgery. Not Able To Pass Motion. Now What Should Be Done?

Hi
It is fairly common problem after spinal surgery compounded by analgesic causing worsening of constipation.
Following things will help,
1) increase water intake to 3 -4 liters a day
2) Increase dietary fiber intake with fruits, salads.
3) Can give him liquid paraffin 15 - 20 ml thrice a day
4) Can apply local lignocaine jelly before pooping.
5) Still having constipation then medications like laxative, enema or suppositories may be necessary consulting a physician.
Hope this answers your query.
Please do reply in case of any further questions.
Wish you a speedy recovery.