Question:
Leaks at Staple Site

Recently posted a question in reguard to post op leaks. I don;'t think I was specific enough. My relative, 5 days post -op developed a leak at the new stomach site after he went home. He developed perintinitis and was septic. After an operation whereas they cleaned him up and TRIED to fix the leak he spent 15 days on the ventilator in ICU. Thank god he pulled thru all this but he still has a leak. They have tried to glue it 4X as they don't feel he is strong enough to be cut open again. He is surviving on TPN and IVfluids. Has anyone had a long term leak and how long has it taken to close. The Dr.s say it "SHOULD" close on its own. It's almost been 3 months with no end in sight. They tried to put in a stent but they were unable to do that. The Drs. still say wait. He is having a very hard time emotionally as he can't even take a sip of water.    — Dotty1775 (posted on August 16, 2007)

August 16, 2007
OMG Dorothy. I am so sorry for him. I thought most all the dager was gone. Did they do it open or lapriscopic? My suggestion would be to bring in another surgeon and tell them just to reverse it and remove the staples as soon as he is sble. Contrary to popular belief these operations are reversable. The only one that I know of that isn't for sure is the gastric sleeve. My heart goes out to him and his family. You try to do a good thing for yourself and it backfires. Please give him a hug for me and tell him I am rooting for him.....My group will be keeping our fingers crossed prayers and good thoughts for him. I am out of surgery only 8 days and am doing fantastic. If only I could give him some of my fortune.
   — bderuiter

August 16, 2007
Definately bring in another surgeon and get a 2nd opinion. They should have done more than just "glue" it when they went back in that was ridiculous! Insurances pay for 2nd opinions...good luck and God Bless!
   — crystalsno

August 17, 2007
I'm so sorry to hear that your loved one is going through this. I have no new info on this for you but I did want to let you know about The Oley Foundation (www.oley.com). It's a website and organization for and about people who are on TPN, IV feedings, g-tubes, j-tubes, etc. They are a great site and very helpful. Sorry I can't offer you answers, but maybe a little support will make this time more manageable.
   — mrsidknee

August 17, 2007
I just don't understand that, 3 months with a leak internally in the gut he should not be alive, I have never heard of this EVER. Ask for a conference with all Doctors involved with his care, infection control, pulmonary (lung) his surgeon and the CNO of the hospital and a patient advocate. If you have his medical power of attorney they should openly discuss everything tell them to "break it down to english" Where is he are you in the Houston area? If so maybe I can help you.
   — DonnaB.

August 17, 2007
I am so sorry about his problems, but I will pray for him everyday and hope they can find a way to help him God bless him, I am 7 weeks out with a RNY. With no problems like his. I wish him luck and good wishes.
   — carman