Question:
Another stoma question...

Please, I am not trying to start another heated discussion but all of this talk about stretching stomas and weight regain is making me paranoid. I have been one to lose weight very easily; although, I am by no means perfect; however, I have had two strictures and two dilations and I'm nervous that my stoma has streched too far during dilation. I do have the silicone ring around my stoma so does that prevent entirely my stoma from stretching or is it just less likely. Any input would be appreciative. I am 5 months post-op down 103lbs, 27lbs from goal. I do eat mostly protein, about 50-60grms per day, so my weight loss has been steady, I just wanted to put my mind at ease I suppose. Thanks so much!    — denisel (posted on September 1, 2003)

September 1, 2003
Denise, congrats on the wonderful weight loss. My stoma is made with a round stapler which limits how far it can be stretched, thankgoodness. I would ask the surgeon your question. I'm not familiar with the ring but it sounds like a good idea. Hopefully some others will know more. <p>I'm sure the surgeon was careful as they know that too large a stoma can cause issue long term. I would think they just dilated it back to the size it was before the stricture. Only your surgoen knows for sure.
   — zoedogcbr

September 2, 2003
Hi! I am 11 weeks out of surgery, and have had 3 strictures!!! I am worried sick about the same thing. I don't think I have that ring or round staples. I got my first stricture at 6 weeks out, 8 weeks out, and now 11 weeks out. I was scoped all 3 times. I am praying for no more strictures, but I am getting them every several weeks. The nurse said I am stricture prone. Yippee for me!!!If anyone can help me think of ways to not get them anymore, please email me. I know I was supposed to eat more to work the pouch/stoma more, but is there anything else? PLEASE HELP> I've had far too many strictures in such a short time. I am so very scared to have another one and get scoped again in 2 weeks. HELP!! Thank you. Kathy [email protected]
   — Kathy R.

September 3, 2003
I've had 4 strictures in 11 weeks.I just got scoped and dilated again today...When surgeons started using the circular stapler they found that it greatly decreased leaks but it increased the percentage of strictures.Some people are just more prone to their body overhealing and causing a stricture.Since I have already had 4 strictures,my g.i. doc said today that if I develop another one he will have to consult with my surgeon about doing something surgical to try and fix the problem...If you are concerned with your stoma being stretched then see if your doc will give you another endoscopy.I think your stoma size is a valid concern.
   — jennifer A.