Which condition likely causes gas pains and abdominal distension after a colectomy?

After a colectomy, slowed gastric emptying is a common condition that can lead to gas pains and abdominal distension. During and after the procedure, the normal function of the gastrointestinal tract may be temporarily altered. This can result from the manipulation of the intestines during surgery, leading to a delay in peristalsis—the coordinated muscle contractions needed for digestion and movement of contents through the digestive system.

As a result of this slowed gastric emptying, gas can accumulate in the intestines as swallowed air and from bacterial fermentation of undigested food, leading to increased pressure in the abdominal cavity, which manifests as gas pains and distension. This post-surgical phenomenon is often referred to as postoperative ileus and can be influenced by factors such as anesthesia, pain medications, and the mechanical handling of the intestines during surgery.

It’s essential to monitor for these symptoms after surgery, as they can indicate that the gastrointestinal tract is taking longer than expected to return to normal function. While other conditions like infection or obstruction can also cause abdominal issues, the direct link between slowed gastric emptying post-colectomy and the development of gas pains and distension makes it the most likely cause in this context.