Our Summary

This study looked at how effective and safe it was to perform a type of keyhole surgery (laparoscopic segmental bowel resection) on a group of 248 patients suffering from a severe form of endometriosis, a condition that affects the womb and can cause severe pain and fertility issues. The surgery involves removing a part of the bowel that has been affected by the disease.

The results showed that the surgery was successful in all cases, with no need to switch to a more invasive type of surgery. The affected part of the bowel was successfully removed in all patients, and there were no serious complications during the surgery. After the surgery, most patients experienced a significant reduction in pain, and this lasted for at least a year.

In half of the patients, some signs of the disease returned, but only in a less severe form. However, the surgery was complex and required surgeons with specific skills in laparoscopic procedures. As such, it should only be performed in specialized centers by surgeons who regularly perform these procedures.

Overall, the study showed that this type of surgery is a feasible option for treating deep infiltrating endometriosis, with a low risk of complications and good results in reducing pain and improving bowel function.

FAQs

  1. What is laparoscopic segmental bowel resection and why is it used?
  2. What were the results of the study on laparoscopic segmental bowel resection for patients with endometriosis?
  3. Who should perform laparoscopic segmental bowel resection and where should it be performed?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may tell a patient undergoing bowel resection surgery to follow a strict diet plan both before and after the surgery to ensure the best outcomes. This may include avoiding certain foods that can cause digestive issues and focusing on high-fiber foods to promote healthy bowel function. Additionally, it is important for patients to stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and follow the post-operative care instructions provided by their healthcare team to aid in a smooth recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for bowel resection include those with severe endometriosis affecting the bowel, patients with colorectal cancer, patients with inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), patients with bowel obstructions or strictures, patients with bowel perforations or abscesses, and patients with severe diverticulitis. These patients may experience symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, bleeding, or recurrent infections that do not respond to other treatments. It is important for these patients to be evaluated by a specialist to determine if bowel resection is the most appropriate treatment option for their condition.

Timeline

Before the bowel resection, the patient would typically have experienced symptoms of severe endometriosis, such as chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, and bowel symptoms like constipation or diarrhea. They may have undergone various treatments such as pain medication, hormone therapy, or other surgeries before considering bowel resection.

After the surgery, the patient would likely experience some pain and discomfort in the abdominal area, which can be managed with pain medication. They would also need to follow a strict diet to allow the bowel to heal properly. Gradually, the patient would start to see improvements in their symptoms, with a reduction in pelvic pain and bowel symptoms. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon would be necessary to monitor the healing process and ensure that the symptoms do not return in a severe form. Overall, the patient’s quality of life should improve significantly after the surgery, with a reduction in pain and a better ability to function in daily activities.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a bowel resection and why is it necessary in my case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with bowel resection surgery?
  3. What is the success rate of this type of surgery for my condition?
  4. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic segmental bowel resection surgeries?
  5. What is the recovery process like after the surgery?
  6. Will I need any additional treatments or medications after the surgery?
  7. How long will it take for me to fully recover and resume normal activities?
  8. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after the surgery?
  9. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize my chances for a successful outcome?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or dietary modifications I should make post-surgery to aid in my recovery?

Reference

Authors: Malzoni M, Di Giovanni A, Exacoustos C, Lannino G, Capece R, Perone C, Rasile M, Iuzzolino D. Journal: J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2016 May-Jun;23(4):512-25. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2015.09.024. Epub 2015 Oct 8. PMID: 26455526