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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Does a Colonoscopy or Abdominal Wall Hernia have more priority?

    Had colonoscopy in late 2012 where cluster of polyps were removed. One being 8mm (tubular ad). March 2013 had laporoscopy, Curette and Merina . This resulted in Peritonitis, bowel resection & repair. Bag removed latter 2013 via Hartman's reversal. Have had ongoing abdominal pain since. Latest scan shows broad neck abdominal wall hernia with no bowel strangulation but contains small loops. No longer have private cover as have been unable to return to work will pay to have priority procedure done. Extreme psychological fear of surgery and lack of trust needs to be considered. Previous General Surgeon who performed reversal opinion was Phantom Pain, possible adhesions. I am 43 years old. Not obese but very unfit as a result of ongoing pain.
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  • 9

    Thanks

    Dr John Lancaster

    Colorectal Surgeon (Bowel), General Surgeon, Laparoscopic Surgeon

    So sorry to hear of your rough ride after your surgery :(  I would say the hernia repair is more important - the colon polyps don't sound especially high risk and could probably be rechecked in 4-5 years after your last colonoscopy. The abdominal wall hernia does sound at risk of strangulating or obstructing the bowel loops so I would think this more important.

    As always, seek the advice of your GP who will know your own personal circumstances and full medical history.

  • 3

    Thanks

    Anonymous

    Thank you for replying. Yes it has been a rollercoaster ride. An urgent referal has been sent. Is air travel unsafe prior to hernia repair? 

  • 1

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    Bowel Cancer Australia is the leading community-funded charity dedicated to prevention, early diagnosis, research, quality treatment and care for everyone affected by bowel cancer. We … View Profile

    Thank you very much for your enquiry.

    Due to the detailed nature of your questions they are quite difficult to answer in an online forum.

    If you'd like to send your questions through to Bowel Cancer Australia's Bowel Care Advisory Services team, one of our friendly Bowel Care Nurses would be very happy to get in contact with you to provide an individualised response and advice.

    You can send your questions to us using the web form available at http://www.bowelcanceraustralia.org/nurse


    We look forward to receiving your questions and to offering you some tailored advice.

    Kind Regards,
    The team at Bowel Cancer Australia
    www.bowelcanceraustralia.org


    Please Note: The information provided by Bowel Cancer Australia’s Nurse and Nutritionist Advisory Services is intended for Australian residents as a reference guide only. It is not a substitute for independent professional advice and is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or disorder.

    If you believe your symptoms are consistent with those of bowel cancer or a digestive illness, please consult your doctor.

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