:barf: 5 weeks post op and still have G-tube and JP drain????
Maybe someone can give me the answer. During the WLS the doc nicked my spleen and I bled out and he had to remove the spleen. He put in a JP drain and a G-tube. At day 5 they discovered an abcess and they put in another JP drain. At 2 weeks he took out the first JP drain, but left the G-tube and JP drain. Now he says I have a leak b/c food particles are showing up in my drain. He has the G-tube (which is in the BIG stomach) clamped off. The problem now is the odor is horrific. 
For 5 days I have not been able to keep anything down. Not even liquids. A cardiac surgeon that is a friend of mine says that he is really concerned that food particles are getting out of the pouch and in to the drain. I am too. What happens to the pieces that don't get pulled out into the drain? Are they rotting inside of me? No fever, just total frustration. It has been suggested that I get a second opinion. Most surgeons don't want to touch another's work, but I don't want to wait until he says..."I'm sorry but you now have gangrene and we are going to have to remove the stomach" or something like that. 
Has anyone had this problem and what should I think? Thanks for any help you can give me..debbie 
For 5 days I have not been able to keep anything down. Not even liquids. A cardiac surgeon that is a friend of mine says that he is really concerned that food particles are getting out of the pouch and in to the drain. I am too. What happens to the pieces that don't get pulled out into the drain? Are they rotting inside of me? No fever, just total frustration. It has been suggested that I get a second opinion. Most surgeons don't want to touch another's work, but I don't want to wait until he says..."I'm sorry but you now have gangrene and we are going to have to remove the stomach" or something like that. Has anyone had this problem and what should I think? Thanks for any help you can give me..debbie 
I'm so sorry that you have been having such a hard road to recovery!! I am VERY concerned that food particles are showing up in your JP- not a good thing! I would DEFINITELY advise you to get a second opinion. I would also be concerned about your nutritional status- without being able to eat you aren't able to provide your body with the nutrients necessary for healing. PLEASE go to another doctor and see if he/she can't offer a solution. Best wishes- Ginny
Another idea; start making demands with your surgeon. I assume that since you are on this group you are an RN (?).
If you are not a nurse, then tell him you would like to see one of his partners for their thoughts on a solution.
Level with him.
Ask him what he would do if his wife/daughter/family member were in your shoes. Tell him you want to be agressive, and do whatever it takes EVEN if it means an exploratory lap to go in and take a peek at what is going on. Food in your peritoneal cavity will never be good, and you can bet it won't fix itself. Good luck you can email anytime! Prayers your way.
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