Why is it important?
Everyone reacts to surgery in their own way. Some people experience a range of emotions before and after an operation – these may include anxiety, fear, doubt, acceptance, relief, confidence, a sense of wellbeing and perhaps even some disappointment. It’s not uncommon for people with an operation scar or a stoma to feel depressed about their changed body image, especially if the surgery was an emergency and came as a shock. This can be a time of worry for family members as well.
Clear and accessible information can help people understand and respond more positively to the situation and manage their post-operative care. This should be offered in a variety of formats: written, audio-visual and web-based and in language that the patient is able to understand.
Patients undergoing IBD surgery who require a stoma should receive specialist guidance pre-operatively. Careful focus on stoma preparation, siting and construction may reduce the incidence of common stoma problems following surgery, such as proctectomy. Following (stoma) surgery all patients should be given appropriate dietary advice or nutritional support as required.
Post-colectomy for IBD, all patients should be offered specialist information and advice about the various surgical options regarding reconstructive surgery. Support from a dedicated pouch specialist nurse is essential for patients counselled on restorative surgery.
We know surgery can have an impact on patients’ psychological wellbeing, with links to depression and issues with body image1. People should be offered psychological support to help them adjust to the changes in their life. They should also be signposted to support from voluntary organisations, which can include talking to someone who has experienced a similar operation. If distress persists after a period of adjustment, with psychological support from specialist nurses and voluntary organisations, psychological therapy should be offered.