Should a Seton hurt this much???

This is my first time to this site, my GP suggested I check it out and I'm glad he did!

11 days ago I had setons placed for 3 RF'S, they had told me that it would be painful for about 2 days and then after that I should have mild discomfort, Ya Right!! It hurts worse now then it did the day I had it done. I still cannot wipe and have to have a bath every time I use the washroom and sitting is definately out of the question unless I have a pillow. There is also quite a lot of drainage. I went to the ER on the 4th night as I was having quite a lot of abdominal pain along with the pain of the Seton and I told the doctor about my surgury, he had never even heard of this procedure and was not much help to me. I see my surgeon again in 2 weeks along with my GI, who will be setting up me starting Remicade. I'm a little freaked about the whole situation, I'd REALLY appreciate any info, suggestions, or comments.

Thanks

The 1st one I had in (it was taken out and a fistula plug was put in last Jan.) was very painful-it was really close to the perineum and hurt all the time. I think it was probably the location. for me but if the area is infected and you are getting abscesses despite the drain, that can cause pain too. I have had my drains "back up" so to speak and that definitely makes the area a bit more sore.

Are you doing lots of sitz baths? Don't skimp on that little luxury (lol) because that really helps the healing process and comfort level.

Feel free to email me if you have any questions-it's in my profile. As you can see from my signature, I have lots of experience with these nasty fistulas.

Feel better soon.

Ginger

I have had a seton in for almost a year now with no plans of taking it out.  Mine hurt the first couple of days, but then it has never hurt again.   I was even working out again a week after the surgery.  They do drain and will continue to do so.  I use 4x4 gauze sponges that I buy at a medical supply store.  I fold two of them in half, and then put it in my butt crack, up against the seton.  It catches the drainage and keeps it off of my skin.  I change it whenever I use the bathroom. 

Like was mentioned before....you have to do the soaks.  And do them in the hottest water you can stand.  If you can, soak at least 4 times a day for the first couple of months.  It helps SO much and helps the healing process also. 

Welcome to HW!  

God bless you for being sick with a 1 yr. old! We may try to have a baby and I am a little worried I will be sick after and not be able to take care of a child. So much to think about for us crohnies.

Good luck with everything!

Ginger