What causes uncontrolled leakage of stool after colorectal cancer surgery, and what should be done about it?
Jan 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Chenggang
Introduction
In general, the causes of uncontrolled stool leakage after colorectal cancer surgery may include dietary factors, intestinal spasms, decreased rectal sphincter function, postoperative infection, and nerve damage. In daily life, it is advisable to avoid spicy and irritating foods, and instead consume more light, easily digestible foods such as steamed egg custard, rice porridge, and Chinese yam porridge, which are beneficial for recovery.
In general, the causes of uncontrolled stool leakage after colorectal cancer surgery may include dietary factors, intestinal spasms, reduced anal sphincter function, postoperative infection, and nerve damage. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for appropriate treatment. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Dietary Factors
After surgery, patients may need to adjust their eating habits and allow the digestive system to adapt to new conditions. Improper diet or impaired digestive function can lead to uncontrolled stool leakage, loss of appetite, and other symptoms. It is advisable to consume light, easily digestible foods such as steamed egg custard, rice porridge, and Chinese yam porridge, which can effectively protect the digestive system.
2. Intestinal Spasms
After surgery, intestinal spasms may occur due to irregular contractions of the intestinal muscles. These spasms can cause irregular bowel movements, resulting in uncontrolled stool leakage and abdominal pain. Medications such as belladonna tablets, racemic hyoscine tablets, or butylscopolamine bromide capsules may be taken under a doctor’s guidance for treatment.
3. Reduced Anal Sphincter Function
The anal sphincter is a muscular ring located at the end of the rectum that normally controls bowel movements. However, colorectal cancer surgery may damage or remove part of this muscle, leading to weakened function and causing symptoms such as uncontrolled stool leakage and constipation. Treatment may include medications such as nifedipine sustained-release tablets, isosorbide dinitrate tablets, or Yiqi Tongbian capsules, as prescribed by a physician.
4. Postoperative Infection
Infections may occur after surgery, particularly at the surgical incision site or within the intestinal wound. Infection can cause inflammation and swelling, thereby disrupting normal bowel function and leading to symptoms such as uncontrolled stool leakage, redness, swelling, and pain at the wound site.
5. Nerve Damage
Colorectal cancer surgery may damage nerves related to intestinal function, such as the vagus nerve or sacral nerves. These nerves transmit signals that control defecation; if injured, they may result in uncontrolled stool leakage, vomiting, and other symptoms. Medications such as cisapride capsules, quadruple probiotic tablets containing Bifidobacterium, or domperidone tablets may be used under medical supervision for treatment.
In daily life, it is beneficial to avoid spicy and irritating foods and instead consume more light, easily digestible foods such as steamed egg custard, rice porridge, and Chinese yam porridge, which are conducive to recovery.
