Question:
Drainage Tube

I have a drainage tube that goes into the large (and now unused ) part of my stomach. I was given a large syringe to flush the drain periodically. Quite a bit of green fluid comes out. I've filled the bag they gave me half way twice now. Is this normal? What happens to this fluid when they remove the tube? I had my surgery on Dec. 3rd.)    — George L. (posted on December 13, 2001)

December 13, 2001
Hi George. My answer is base on basic anatomy and physiology, I am not a doctor and I did not stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night (LOL). I am however a registered nurse. The bile and hydrochloric acid naturally produced in the lower part (no longer used) of your stomach is what is being drained by your drainage tube I am guessing. When the drainage tube is removed it will drain down the bypassed intestine back into the common area of intestine that now exists. Your doc should be able to draw you a pic. I am not being silly but a picture really is worth a thousand words. You still need these juices to aid in digestion. Best wishes, Joy Suggs.
   — jsuggs

December 13, 2001
Hi I too had to drain alot even go to have the fluid build up drained by syringe after tube removed dr told me that as you body uses less and less of the fluids your body will stop making them,,,,yes i looked at him just like your doing now huh????? he explained it like breast feeding the more you nurse the more milk theless the less milk you produce same with digestive juices and other body fluids!!! now that EVERYONE knows how completely idiotic i was HAVE A GREAT DAY
   — BBD

December 13, 2001
Hi there! I had this same drainage tube for 10 days following my surgery. I never emptied it once, so when removal time came, there was quite a bit of liquid built up. The doc told me that this was an "in case" type situation - if you were in discomfort, you could drain it instead of waiting for the body to drain it itself. If you aren't having any discomfort, then there should be no problem! Good luck!
   — Tracie B.

December 14, 2001
Hi! I had a drainage tube as well but only for three days. My bag had to be emptied three times a day and I feel just fine. Don't worry, I think it's perfectly normal. Good luck on your weightloss journey!
   — vbenedict0208