Our Summary

This research study focused on the impact of bowel occult microscopic endometriosis (BOME) on patients who had undergone colorectal resection for deep infiltrating digestive endometriosis. The study was conducted on 103 patients between June 2009 and November 2014. The researchers examined the resected bowel specimens for BOME and found it in 14.6% of the cases. However, the presence of BOME did not seem to have any significant impact on the patient’s symptoms or recovery. The symptoms were measured before and one year after the surgery, and included discomfort during bowel movements, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and overall quality of life related to gastrointestinal issues. The study concluded that there was no significant difference in these symptoms between patients with and without BOME.

FAQs

  1. What is bowel occult microscopic endometriosis (BOME)?
  2. Did the presence of BOME have any significant impact on the patient’s symptoms or recovery after bowel resection surgery?
  3. What symptoms were measured in the study before and after the surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about bowel resection is to follow a healthy diet high in fiber and drink plenty of water to help with regular bowel movements and prevent constipation. It is also important to follow any post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, such as taking prescribed medications and avoiding certain foods that may irritate the digestive system. Regular exercise can also help improve bowel function and overall recovery after bowel resection surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended bowel resection include those with severe or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or rectal bleeding. Bowel resection may also be recommended for patients with bowel obstructions, bowel perforations, or severe inflammation or infection in the intestines. Additionally, patients with colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, or other conditions affecting the intestines may also require bowel resection surgery.

Timeline

Before bowel resection:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of deep infiltrating endometriosis, such as pelvic pain, painful periods, and painful intercourse.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests, such as pelvic ultrasound or MRI, to confirm the presence of endometriosis.
  3. Patient and healthcare provider discuss treatment options, including bowel resection, to remove the affected tissue.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative preparations, such as blood tests, imaging studies, and consultations with the surgical team.
  5. Patient undergoes bowel resection surgery to remove the affected tissue.
  6. Patient is monitored closely post-operatively for any complications or side effects.

After bowel resection:

  1. Patient experiences pain and discomfort post-operatively, which is managed with pain medication.
  2. Patient is monitored for any signs of infection or complications, such as bowel obstruction.
  3. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and diet, under the guidance of the healthcare team.
  4. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and address any ongoing symptoms.
  5. Patient undergoes physical therapy or other interventions to aid in recovery and improve bowel function.
  6. Patient’s symptoms are monitored over time to assess the effectiveness of the surgery and any potential recurrence of endometriosis.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is bowel occult microscopic endometriosis (BOME) and how does it impact my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and benefits of undergoing a bowel resection for deep infiltrating digestive endometriosis?
  3. How will my symptoms be monitored and managed after the surgery?
  4. What is the recovery process like after a bowel resection?
  5. Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of?
  6. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up care after the surgery?
  7. How soon can I expect to see improvements in my symptoms after the surgery?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or dietary recommendations I should follow post-surgery?
  9. What are the chances of BOME recurring after the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?

Reference

Authors: Roman H, Hennetier C, Darwish B, Badescu A, Csanyi M, Aziz M, Tuech JJ, Abo C. Journal: Fertil Steril. 2016 Feb;105(2):423-9.e7. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.09.030. Epub 2015 Oct 29. PMID: 26474734