Patient Information Resources


Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.
763 Larkfield Road
2nd Floor
Commack, NY 11725
Ph: (631) 462-2225
Fax: (631) 462-2240






Child Orthopedics
General
Pain Management
Spine - Cervical
Spine - General
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic

« Back

When my wife went for her back surgery (through her abdomen), we expected her not to be allowed to eat beforehand, but we didn't expect for her to have to take very strong laxatives to empty her bowels and then to swallow barium. Why was that?

If your wife had disc surgery performed through her abdomen, the surgeon had to be sure that he or she doesn't cause any damage to the internal organs.

Fasting before surgery is normal because the stomach needs to be as empty as possible. In this case, however, there's more to the preparation. Because the surgeon is going in through the abdomen, it is essential that the organs, be easily seen and avoided. The best way to make the intestines noticeable, is to fill them with barium and easily detectable. This is why this procedure is necessary.


References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.