getting partial obstructions from abdominal adhesions but can't have x-rays

I can't have the barium swallow or a colonoscopy because it is too dangerous. My GI said I have extensive adhesive activity and probing can perforate the intestinal wall. Barium may become too thick. I'm wondering what will happen when I have a total obstruction. The surgeon will not have an x-ray to pinpoint it before he opens me up again.

Anyone else in this situation? Are you told to convert to a liquid diet? Even at that, liquid won't pass thru a total obstruction.

FYI: My obstructions have always been at the site of the anastomosis at the terminal ileum.

       My colon is shaped like an "M" because an adhesion is attached to the intestines just below the middle of my abdomen.

Thanks Becky. My last resection was in 1995. CT's and MRI's weren't used for crohn's here at that time. In 1988 I obstructed 4 times in less than a year and they kept sending me home because my condition wasn't "life threatening." By the time the surgeon agreed to the resection I was weak and extremely malnourished. And that happened after several barium swallow x-rays and the location of the obstruction was clear. I dread going thru that again.

My Gastro. said "I guess I won't see you until you show up in the ER because those adhesions will cause problems eventually."

When it happens, I will ask about a CT. Thank you! 

I don't understand why you can't do a CT with contrast. The barium you drink with a CT is not the same as that thick crap you drink for a SBFT. It is much more liquidy, thats how they test me for obstructions everytime. I think you should ask for a CT, that way the surgeons can see what their up against. Good luck!

Thanks Nanners and everyone! CT's with contrast weren't being done last time I had this problem. My obstruction is either at the site of the anastomosis or in my transverse colon, or both. My colon is shaped like an "M" due to the adhesions and it is murder each time food passes thru the top of the "M." My gastro just said "give me a call from the ER when you have a crisis event" but I'd prefer to prepare myself in advance. I am so glad to hear that technology is being used to eliminate some of the agony. Thanks again, everyone.

You were asking about symptoms of a total obstruction. I can tell you from personal experience and seeing a couple cases as a nurse. It generally shows up with projectile vomiting or as I call it "vomiting for distance". I assume you know if you EVER vomit and it looks like coffee grounds go immediately to the hospital 98% of the time that is a sign of a GI bleed. May I ask, are your doctors just waiting for an obstruction before they want to do anything about adhesions ? I have had multiple surgeries over the years for abdominal and pelvic adhesions and I DO NOT want to wait until it is an emergency because most of the time that means you get cut open-causing additional adhesions and often a bowel gets "nicked" and you end up with an infection. Not many surgeons will admit what the infection is but all you have to do is ask for the lab culture result and when it comes up ecoli you know it has come from inside your bowels. Sorry too much information. Just been there and seen that....Again sorry really wanted to help and ask what you are able to do medically in your situation.....

Also you won't be able to pass gas.