What Causes Fever, Diarrhea And Weight Loss After Rectal Cancer Surgery?
Question: I have a question regarding a potential post-surgical infection in the large intestine/rectum region. My grandfather recently discovered he had early-stage upper rectal cancer. He went through surgery and had it removed. After tissue examination, the surgeon says the surgery was successful and they were able to remove the early-stage cancer. They stitched the intestine wound back up. However, he has had a fever (38-39 Celsius), diarrhea, and weight loss after surgery. The doctors believe that the wound might either be infected, not healed properly, or not stitched properly (causing there to be a potential opening). A stool sample showed no abnormal pathogens. If possible, I am hoping for some suggestion on what tests to do next to find the source of the high fever problem. I was told a colonoscopy might cause further damage to the wound and a radioactive enema might cause damage if it leaks into the abdominal cavity. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Brief Answer:
An Ultrasound or a CT
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for writing in
When was the surgery performed ?
I am of the opinion that an abdominal ultrasound in expert hands should be good enough to detect a collection at the operative site
If that fails a CT with a water soluble contrast should surely help
Colonoscopy in anywas is not indicated in a recent surgery expert for management of an emergency
Get a complete blood count done that will also show the level of infection in the body
Hope this helps
Do write back in case of concern
An Ultrasound or a CT
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for writing in
When was the surgery performed ?
I am of the opinion that an abdominal ultrasound in expert hands should be good enough to detect a collection at the operative site
If that fails a CT with a water soluble contrast should surely help
Colonoscopy in anywas is not indicated in a recent surgery expert for management of an emergency
Get a complete blood count done that will also show the level of infection in the body
Hope this helps
Do write back in case of concern
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad