Dr. Michelle Olson, MD

If your colitis is under control with (or without) medications and your surgeon is aware of all medications that you are currently taking, your ulcerative colitis diagnosis should not interfere with your hernia surgery. If, however, your colitis remains symptomatic or not well-controlled on medications, it may be beneficial to address this before proceeding with the hernia repair. It is important to make your IBD specialist aware that you are going to be having surgery as well. Best of luck! Michelle M Olson, MD, MACM Vice President of Graduate Medical Education and DIO Methodist Health System Dallas o: 214-947-2356 c: 570-394-3588

Absolutely! The skin around the anus can be sensitive and depending on the ingredients in the cream you are using, itching can be a common issue. If you applying the cream at the recommendation of a doctor, I would recommend following back up with them to discuss options and/or alternatives. Michelle M Olson, MD, MACM Vice President of Graduate Medical Education and DIO Methodist Health System Dallas

Unfortunately there is nothing specific you can do to prevent polyps. The best thing you can do is to maintain a healthy lifestyle in regard to eating and exercise, and to be diligent about colon cancer screening with colonoscopy beginning at age 40. Michelle M Olson, MD, MACM Vice President of Graduate Medical Education and DIO Interim Director, General Surgery Residency Program Methodist Health System Dallas o: 214-947-2356 c: 570-394-3588

Yes. Michelle M Olson, MD, MACM Vice President of Graduate Medical Education and DIO Interim Director, General Surgery Residency Program Methodist Health System Dallas o: 214-947-2356 c: 570-394-3588

It depends on the situation, but generally speaking the best treatment is going to be drainage of the abscess by a provider either in the office or emercency department. Michelle M Olson, MD, MACM Vice President of Graduate Medical Education and DIO Interim Director, General Surgery Residency Program Methodist Health System Dallas o: 214-947-2356 c: 570-394-3588

The only way to accurately diagnose the problem will be to have an exam.

Given your description, you will likely pass this with your next stool. You should definitely seek medical care if you experience bleeding, pain, inability to poop or pee, or have fevers/chills.

The procedure itself takes 20-45 minutes and you are sedated for the entire time. It does take time for the sedation effects to wear off, so most people are in a recovery area for at least 30 minutes after the procedure. Because of the sedation, you will not be able to drive that day and need to arrange for a ride.

This is not uncommon. If the wound has persisted, it may be: 1) not fully drained, or 2) a fistula. Either cause of the drainage can be assessed and treated by a Colorectal Surgeon.