The doctor made a large cut, called an incision, in your belly to take out part of the intestine. You are likely to have pain that comes and goes for the next few days after bowel surgery. You may have bowel cramps, and your cut (incision) may hurt. You may also feel like you have influenza (flu).

How long does bowel obstruction surgery take?

Bowel resection surgery usually takes between 1 and 4 hours. The usual length of stay is 5 to 7 days in the hospital. Your doctor may choose to keep you longer if complications arise or if you had a large amount of intestine removed.

Is bowel obstruction surgery painful?

Your surgeon will perform your bowel obstruction repair using general anesthesia. General anesthesia is a combination of intravenous (IV) medications and gases that put you in a deep sleep. You are unaware of the surgery and do not feel any pain.