Today is my 10-year ostomy anniversary. I have long avoided serious consideration of reversal surgery because it's difficult to imagine my quality of life being more comfortable than it is today with a bag. I am left with a rectal stump to deal with, however, and it feels overdue for a decision. I don't presently have any issues but it has atrophied and narrowed last I had it examined 2 years ago. I was meant to have it expanded but my paperwork got lost and I have yet to reschedule. I read somewhere that you can have a surgery that leaves the anus intact. Is anyone familiar with this? As I understand, complete removal can be quite painful and long to recover from. Hoping to hear from patients who are living with their remaining bit of colon, people who have had j-pouch surgery, and those who have decided to have complete removal. Thanks for your time!

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Resuming your personal and work life after ostomy surgery can be challenging to adjust to a new life.
Learn ways to adjust to life after ostomy surgery.
Learn ways to adjust to life after ostomy surgery.
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Urinary tract infections can still occur after urostomy surgery.
Learn about some basic diet and ostomy pouch routines that can help prevent them.
Learn about some basic diet and ostomy pouch routines that can help prevent them.