Interventional Radiology
Cecostomy (C-tube) Tube Exchange
A cecostomy tube (shown above) is a catheter that is placed into the cecum to allow fluid to be administered into the proximal colon to evacuate stool from the bowel in complex cases of constipation or fecal incontinence after conventional management has failed. Children requiring a cecostomy may have myelomeningocele, various muscular diseases, or problems with the anal sphincter.
POST-PROCEDURE ACTIVITY:
- A responsible adult must drive you home. After receiving sedation or anesthesia, you should not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do anything that requires concentration for at least 24 hours after receiving sedation.
- It is recommended that a responsible adult be with you until morning.
POST -PROCEDURE PAIN:
- Pain control following your procedure is a priority for both you and your Physicians.
- Some soreness or tenderness at the site is to be expected for several days. We recommend taking over the counter analgesics to help relieve this pain.
- Alternative methods for pain relief include but not limited to heat or cold compress, relaxation techniques, rest, and changing of positions.
- If pain continues after 5-7 days or you have severe pain not relieved by medication, please contact us as directed below.
POST-PROCEDURE SITE CARE:
- Keep the dressing around the tube dry. Remove in 1-2 days and leave the site open to air.
- You may use the tube immediately after exchange.
DIET/MEDICATIONS:
- You may resume your previous diet after the procedure.
- If you receive sedation or anesthesia, avoid any foods or beverages containing alcohol for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
- Please see the Medication Reconciliation sheet for instructions regarding resuming your home medications.
CALL THE DOCTOR IF:
- Bright red blood has soaked the bandage.
- You have pain not relieved by medication. Some soreness at the site is to be expected.
- You have chills, body aches, fever greater than 101⁰F
- Redness, swelling or warmth at or around the incision
- Drainage or pus coming from the incision
- Increased tenderness around the incision
For severe problems such as excessive bleeding, chest pain or shortness of breath, please call 911.
For any of the above symptoms or for problems or concerns related to the procedure, call 913-588-4846 for Monday-Friday 7-5. After-hours and weekends, please call 913-588-5000 and ask for the Interventional Radiology Resident on-call.