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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Severe Pain Radiating From Sternum To Abdomen Post Hernia Repairs?

Hello Doctor I am 2 year post RNY (Gastric Bypass surgery) and am 54 and weigh 150. I have had 2 Petersen Hernia repairs since the surgery. (Gallbladder was removed years ago). Yet since this surgery I get these horrible gut wrenching pains from sternum to abdomen, seems like the bowels are twisting for hours, that take my breath away, then I go to the washroom maybe 10 times within 4-6 hours. I can lose 3-4 pounds in a day. I don t seem to be constipated as I go every day or other day but perhaps I am. The Surgeon does not think it is another Petersen Hernia since I had 2 surgeries to repair them. I have had a gastro endoscope - mouth to stomach (shows no ulcers and colonoscopy (just diagnosed with diverticulitis), a CT scan and xray. I don t take meds except for .100 mcg Eltroxin. Due to surgery I am on lifetime of multi vitamins, B12 1000 mcg every 2nd day and Proferrin (iron supplement). I have no allergies to foods. I never had this before when I was obese. The pain is so bad I wish for death at times and it is unpredictable. Would you have any idea what this could be? I know that you are highly trained Doctors in the U.S. and hope you could help me with this health issue. I appreciate any help you can provide. Sincerely, Marina
posted on Mon, 31 Aug 2015
Twitter Sat, 18 Apr 2020 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 20 Apr 2020 Last reviewed on
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hello,

As per my surgical experience, the issue with severe pain radiating from sternum to abdomen post multiple surgeries over stomach might be in concern with:
@ Post operative adhesions between various upper abdomen organs
@ Narrowing of part of anastomosis site
@ Newer pathology with inflammation of part of intestine or others

In my clinic, I do recommend a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast followed by diagnostic laparoscopy if needed as per the results of CT scan.

Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel, General Surgeon
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What Causes Severe Pain Radiating From Sternum To Abdomen Post Hernia Repairs?

Hello, As per my surgical experience, the issue with severe pain radiating from sternum to abdomen post multiple surgeries over stomach might be in concern with: @ Post operative adhesions between various upper abdomen organs @ Narrowing of part of anastomosis site @ Newer pathology with inflammation of part of intestine or others In my clinic, I do recommend a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast followed by diagnostic laparoscopy if needed as per the results of CT scan. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel, General Surgeon