Greetings, one and all:
I am three weeks out from my end colostomy reversal. Was in the hospital for 5 days, 4 of them with an epidural (Fentanyl) in place. Had no trouble walking up and down the halls of the hospital while that was working. After it (and the urinary catheter) got pulled, then some pain began. I was on oxycontin and oxycodone for a couple of days, and then Tylenol did whatever was needed after that. Haven't needed any Tylenol since last Friday (today's Wednesday). Cannot wear a belt yet -- the incisions (one vertical for access to the inner sanctum, one horizontal for removal of the stoma) are still quite tender.
12 days after the surgery, my reconnected piping began working. And working. And working. I average 5-10 trips to the toilet daily now. Not diarrhoea exactly, but rather thick worm-like pellets and occasional mucus and other liquid showing up. When I have to go, I really really have to!Stop what you're doing, Peter, and get in there NOW.
I'm 81, and initially, after the emergency surgery that necessitated the temporary colostomy (perforation of a diverticulitis pocket and peritonitis), I swore that I would never again go willingly in for surgery. I was in for 10 days at that time, due to a misplaced catheter and resultant urethral bleeding, and it was awful.
This time, relatively, 'twas a piece o' cake. I'm delighted to be rid of the barrieers, bags and such. Eager to things down South to resume normal operation.
Feels like my lower colon has passed Open Pipe 1A, and is now enrolled in Compaction 101:When to Hold, When to Let Go.
I'm wondering how long it has taken others to regain full sphincter control. I'm wearing adult diaper-pants, which is OK, I guess...but I don't trust my system enough to go out anywhere for any extended period of time, for fear that I'll not be able to make it in time to a toilet and will end up walking around with loaded diaper-pants.
Appreciate any feedback/information, and happy to reply to others' questions about the whole process.