I had surgery for rectal cancer Jan22 stage 1. I left the hospital after 8 days. I did not do well, pain, difficulty eating, having a BM. New CAT scan showed a leak at the anastomotic site along with an absess with fistula. I am home now after spending another 19 days in the hospital. I am still on TPN feedings which I get through a PIC line and I have a drainaige tube through to the absess. I still have stool coming through the drain! HELP!!! How long do you think this will take to heal? Has any one here had a similar experience? I have not been allowed any food other than TPN in almost a month. I am very worn out and extremely discouraged.