Time Between First Operation and Reversal Operation

Hello all -- I'm new to the site and I'm looking for experience regarding the time required between the partial colectomy and the reversal operation. I had an emergency partial colectomy due to a hole in my lower large intestine from diverticulitis on Dec 5, 2011. In the hospital, my surgeon told me the reversal operation would be in 3-6 months. Then when I had a post-operation follow-up visit two weeks later, she said it would be 6-12 months. That's a significant difference. What are your experiences with the time between operations?

I was originally told six months, healing from surgery for a perforated bowel and Crohn's. I am having my reversal at eleven months, in just a few weeks.

I'm sorry, but I can't help you with the partial colonectomy specifically, but I have a friend with colon cancer who was reversed 4 months after radiation (no chemo) treatment and another close friend with colon cancer who was reversed one year after chemo (no radiation) treatment. The latter had a portion of her rectum removed and so far has had no issues specific to the reversal recovery. In fact, she was recently cleared to begin abdominal exercises - yay for her! As for myself, it has been 18 months since the initial colostomy surgery and one year since chemoradiation therapy ended. On 11/14, I had the first phase of a reversal completed, and I am waiting for an infection to clear up before I can complete the second half. I haven't had any other issues aside from the shocking revelations of dealing with an ileostomy in comparison to the colostomy. I hate it with an intense passion now. But that, my dear, wasn't what you asked, now was it? ;)

Thanks for the comments. It looks like there is a wide range of time between operations, and it depends on the individual situation. Best to you both regarding your future success.

I was told 6 months, but at that point, I did not feel that my body was healed enough to go through with a reversal. So, I have waited until now. I am scheduled for a reversal on Jan. 18th. I just didn't have the inner peace at 6 months, and now that I have waited an additional 6 months, I know my body was not ready then. But, as you said, everyone is different, and our bodies heal at their own pace. I have a friend who had her ileostomy reversed after only 3 months; she is 2 years into her reversal now and going strong! I would listen to my doc and to my body and split the difference! ;) Darla

Tips on Hernia Prevention with Collin | Hollister

Sage advice, Darla. Best wishes with your Jan. 18th procedure. Happy days ahead! David