Rectal Exam under Anesthesia (with pouch)
This is an exam of the rectum and ileal pouch while you are asleep under anesthesia.
Bowel Prep
You will need to empty your pouch before the exam. Buy 1 sodium phosphate enema at a drugstore.
The Day before the Exam
▪Eat a light breakfast, lunch and dinner. Avoid greasy foods and red meat.
▪Drink only clear liquids after dinner.
| Water | Jell-O® homemade from box only, no fruit in it |
| Clear Broth | Sparkling water or soda |
| Juice with no pulp (apple) | Coffee or tea, no creamer |
Popcicles Hard candy Crystal Light® |
Gatorade® Special K2O® protein water |
▪ Shower before bed with Hibiclens® soap as instructed by your clinic.
You may have clear liquids 4 hours prior to the surgery. No solid foods after midnight the evening before the surgery.
The Day of the Exam
Gently, give yourself the rectal enema 1-1½ hours before you leave for the hospital. Shower.
After the Exam
Your care after the exam will depend on the findings. If you had a dilation, you may be able to return to your normal routine in 2 days or you may need to follow more strict guidelines.
Activities
▪ Wear loose clothing.
▪ Avoid sitting or standing for more than 1 hour at a time.
▪ You may have to limit lifting to no more than 20 pounds.
▪ Plan to see your surgeon 1-2 weeks after your exam.
Pain Relief
You may have pain after your exam. Your doctor may order pain pills for you.
When to Call the Doctor
▪ Problems having a bowel movement.
▪ Temperature by mouth over 100.4°F for two readings taken four hours apart.
▪ Pain not relieved by pain pills.
▪ Bleeding that does not stop after 10 minutes of applied pressure to the rectal
area.
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
Copyright © 04/23/2013 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#4756
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