Overlapping Sphincteroplasty
A sphincteroplasty is a rectal sphincter repair to correct a defect in the muscles. There are two anal muscles that control bowel movements, similar to two round doughnuts, one inside the other. If a defect exists in the complete circle of muscle, the problem can be corrected with this surgery. The two ends of the muscle are cut and overlapped onto one another, then sewn in place to restore the complete circle of muscle.
Getting Ready for Surgery
- If you smoke, it is important that you quit. This is very important for proper healing to occur. We can help you quit.
- The two days before surgery, you will start the full bowel prep to prepare for surgery. We will discuss the details with you. The information can be found in Health Facts for You #6113-Full Bowel Prep using Bisacodyl® and GoLYTELY®. You will not be taking the antibiotics.
- Expect to be in the hospital about 3 days.
After Surgery
Wound Care
- It is okay to shower, but no baths, hot tubs, or soaking the wound in water.
- Keep the entire area dry to promote healing. You may find it helpful to use a hair dryer on the cool setting.
- Avoid using toilet paper for the first few days. Instead clean the area after a bowel movement by spraying the area with warm water. We will give you a spray bottle. Gently wipe with an alcohol-free baby wipe.
- You may have some clear drainage; wear a pad to keep moisture away from your skin.
Pain
You can expect to have pain after surgery. You may have more pain with bowel movements. Your doctor will order pain pills for you.
Diet
You will be on a full liquid or pureed diet until your follow-up doctor visit,
Constipation
You may be able to avoid this while on the full liquid or pureed diet. Your doctor may have you take a stool softener (docusate sodium) or a bulk fiber laxative once you are on a regular diet.
Activities
- Plan rest periods during the day. Plan also to be up and around doing light duties each day to maintain your strength.
- Avoid sitting or standing for longer than 1 hour at a time for the first few days.
- Do not lift more than 10 pounds for 6 weeks.
- For safety reasons, do not drive as long as you are taking narcotic pain pills.
- Sex may be resumed when it is okayed by your doctor.
- Check with your doctor before you return to work. Your recovery time may be longer if your job involves heavy labor or sitting for long periods of time.
- Avoid all tobacco including second hand smoke.
When to Call the Doctor
- Skin problems around the wound or a rash
- Large amounts of bright red blood that will not stop with firm pressure to the wound area for 10 minutes
- Temperature greater than 100.4°F. by mouth.
- Foul-smelling drainage
- Breaking open of suture line
- Excess swelling
- Problems passing urine
- Pain not controlled with pain pills
Phone Numbers
Digestive Health Center: (608) 890-5000.
After hours, weekends or holidays this number will be answered by the paging operator. Ask for the doctor on call or ask for Dr. Harms, Heise, Kennedy, or Foley. Leave your name and phone number with area code. The doctor will call you back.
If you live out of the area, call (855) 342-9900.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 04/24/2013
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