How to Pass Gas Quickly After Surgery

Passing gas usually refers to expelling intestinal gas. Generally, some effective methods to help expel gas quickly after surgery include getting out of bed for activity, adjusting body position, drinking more water, appropriate abdominal massage, and applying heat packs. If gas is not expelled for a prolonged period, it is recommended to inform the doctor promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Getting out of bed for activity: If the patient's physical condition allows, turning over in bed can be attempted about six hours after surgery. Between 12 to 24 hours post-surgery, the patient can slowly get out of bed with guidance from medical staff and family accompaniment. Physical activity stimulates intestinal peristalsis, accelerates gastrointestinal function recovery, and facilitates gas expulsion. Each activity session should not be too long. It is advisable to gradually increase the duration from a few minutes up to ten or more minutes, performing it multiple times daily, progressively enhancing intestinal activity.

2. Adjusting body position: In addition to the usual supine position, frequently changing to a semi-recumbent or lateral position is also beneficial. When in a semi-recumbent position, the body forms a 30-60 degree angle with the bed surface, allowing abdominal organs to shift downward due to gravity, reducing pressure on the intestines, and promoting intestinal peristalsis. The lateral position changes the location where gas accumulates in the intestines, facilitating gas movement. Regularly adjusting positions stimulates the intestines from multiple angles, making peristalsis smoother and accelerating the gas expulsion process.

3. Drinking more water: After surgery, the intestines are relatively dehydrated. Supplementing water moistens the intestines, softens stool, and promotes peristalsis. When the patient is conscious after surgery and has no discomfort such as nausea or vomiting, small amounts of warm water can be consumed multiple times. Each time, 10-20 ml can be taken every 15-30 minutes. As the body recovers, gradually increase water intake, but avoid consuming large amounts at once to prevent bloating. Following the principle of small amounts frequently helps provide a favorable hydration environment for intestinal recovery.

4. Appropriate massage: Abdominal massage can effectively stimulate the intestines and promote postoperative gas expulsion. Before massaging, wash hands thoroughly and warm the palms by rubbing them together. Place the hands on the patient's abdomen with the navel as the center, and gently massage in circular motions in a clockwise direction. The pressure should be moderate to avoid causing pain. Each session should last about 15-20 minutes and can be performed 3-4 times daily. This massage mimics the direction of intestinal peristalsis, stimulating intestinal activity, promoting gas expulsion, and helping patients recover intestinal function sooner.

5. Heat application: Applying heat improves abdominal blood circulation through thermal stimulation and enhances intestinal peristalsis. A hot water bottle or warm towel can be used for this purpose, with the temperature maintained at about 40-50 degrees Celsius to avoid skin burns from excessive heat. Place the hot water bottle or warm towel on the abdomen for 15-20 minutes each time, 3-4 times daily. During heat application, observe the skin condition closely. If redness, itching, or other discomfort occurs, stop immediately. The warmth helps relax intestinal smooth muscles, accelerating gas expulsion and assisting patients in expelling gas quickly after surgery.

Postoperative gas expulsion methods should be tailored to the patient's specific condition and based on the doctor's recommendations. Meanwhile, patients should also pay attention to following medical advice, maintaining airway patency, and practicing good oral hygiene.