Long story short: On April 20, 2013, my colon perforated due to diverticulitis. I arrived by ambulance to the hospital already in full-blown septic shock. I was in the operating room for 5 hours and then transferred to ICU on life support. My family was told that if I was alive in 72 hours, I might have a chance, but they should hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Five days later, I awoke in ICU and was taken off of life support. I spent the next two months between the hospital and a nursing home. Please note, I am a 53-year-old female with two college-age sons. The midline incision went from my breast line to the top of my pelvis, and due to the overwhelming infection, the wound was left open with retention sutures (thick wires running in and out). Added to that was a Hartmann colostomy. Fast forward 6 months: Surprising everyone, I returned full-time to work in September and am now gearing up for my reversal. Just found out though that since there was so much intestinal damage, in order to do the reversal, I will also need to have a temporary ileostomy to allow the colostomy takedown to heal. Six months after this, I will be able to have the ileostomy reversed. Has anyone else had to do this? Both additional surgeries are open (not laparoscopic), and closure will be by staples. If so, how long was your recovery time from the colostomy takedown and new ileostomy? I feel so great that I am now getting worried that I will be laid up for a long time. Any input is appreciated! Thanks!
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