It’s Time for Plan B

After these several days of a conservative treatment approach to the bowel obstruction with little progress, today another CT scan was ordered. 

CT Results and Next Steps

Over the past several days, Kristi’s care team has taken a careful, step-by-step approach to managing her small bowel obstruction. Initially, the doctors chose a conservative plan — using rest for the bowel, suction through an NG tube, and IV fluids — in hopes that the blockage might resolve without surgery. This is the preferred first step when possible, because surgery carries risks, especially for someone who’s had multiple prior operations and delicate internal healing.

After several days, though, the obstruction hasn’t cleared on its own. Her NG tube continues to drain, and while she has some moments of relief, there hasn’t been lasting improvement. Given that, the team ordered a CT scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis to take a closer look at what’s happening inside and to reassess the broader picture of Kristi’s health.

What the CT Showed

The scan confirms that the small bowel obstruction is still present, and it appears to be caused by a tumor in the lower abdomen. This tumor acts as a “lead point,” where one section of bowel is telescoping slightly into another. Thankfully, there’s no sign of perforation or leak, which means the situation is stable for now, though still serious.

The scan also showed increased tumor growth in several other places, which is not super surprising, but also not good to hear. We will wait for the PET scan and maybe even a future full body scan (which is scheduled for next week and has been for months now) to talk more about that.

Why This Matters and What’s Next

Because the obstruction is now likely linked to a tumor rather than swelling or scarring, it is unlikely to resolve on its own. That’s why the doctors now believe surgery or a procedural intervention may be necessary. Before definitively deciding on surgery, they’ve scheduled a PET scan to give an even more clear picture of what’s going on. 

Looking Ahead

These new results provide the clearest picture yet of what’s happening and why the obstruction hasn’t eased.

Tomorrow’s PET scan will help determine the best path forward — whether surgery, a less invasive procedure, or another therapeutic approach.

We remain grateful for the attentive care she’s receiving and for everyone’s continued love, messages, and support.