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What Causes Lump In Stomach Feeling After A Partial Pancreatectomy And Splenectomy?
My husband had a partial pancreatectomy and spleenectomy in January 2015. It s been a little over four months now, and he has no apetite and is losing weight. I am confused as to what to give him to eat as he is very picky. He also complains almost constantly about a lead ball in his stomach. He left the hospital in January with a jp drain tube. That failed to function about a month and a half ago, and they placed a pigtail catheter just above it to help with post surgery drainage. This catheter is replaced every week. His biggest complaint is digestive problems. Only the head of his pancreas remains as both the body and tail + his spleen have been removed. Could the ball he feels in the area of his stomach be the head of the pancreas. He says it is extremely uncomfortable. The catheter is blocked just about every week, and is becoming a nightmare. Are there any alternatives to this catheter? Please advise. Thanks.
Mon, 3 Apr 2023
Hi,
After a partial pancreatectomy and splenectomy, it is not uncommon for patients to experience digestive issues and discomfort in the abdominal area. The lump or ball feeling in the stomach could be due to a variety of factors, including post-surgical scarring, inflammation, or nerve damage.
It is important to follow up with your husband's healthcare provider regarding his symptoms and concerns. They can perform a physical exam and order any necessary tests to determine the underlying cause of his symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.
In some cases, alternative drainage options may be available for post-surgical drainages, such as a percutaneous drain or endoscopic drainage. These options may be less invasive and easier to manage than the pigtail catheter.
In terms of dietary considerations, it is important to work with a registered dietitian or nutritionist to develop a personalized meal plan that meets your husband's nutritional needs and preferences. This may include small, frequent meals that are easy to digest, and avoiding foods that are high in fat or difficult to digest.
Overall, it is important to seek medical attention and support for your husband's post-surgical symptoms and concerns. With appropriate care and management, it may be possible to improve his quality of life and overall health.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
After a partial pancreatectomy and splenectomy, it is not uncommon for patients to experience digestive issues and discomfort in the abdominal area. The lump or ball feeling in the stomach could be due to a variety of factors, including post-surgical scarring, inflammation, or nerve damage.
It is important to follow up with your husband's healthcare provider regarding his symptoms and concerns. They can perform a physical exam and order any necessary tests to determine the underlying cause of his symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.
In some cases, alternative drainage options may be available for post-surgical drainages, such as a percutaneous drain or endoscopic drainage. These options may be less invasive and easier to manage than the pigtail catheter.
In terms of dietary considerations, it is important to work with a registered dietitian or nutritionist to develop a personalized meal plan that meets your husband's nutritional needs and preferences. This may include small, frequent meals that are easy to digest, and avoiding foods that are high in fat or difficult to digest.
Overall, it is important to seek medical attention and support for your husband's post-surgical symptoms and concerns. With appropriate care and management, it may be possible to improve his quality of life and overall health.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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