Seeking Advice on Ostomy Reversal and Related Concerns

Mid-December 2024, I had a perforation of the sigmoid colon with 6.5” removed and with a stoma due to diverticulitis. I was considering retaining the stoma as an 83-year-old male, but I have a hernia at the top and a small fistula at the bottom. The first colorectal surgeon is recommending reversal, and I'm obtaining a second opinion on May 7. Because of these two factors, it seems that the reversal is basically required, especially due to the hernia and the surgeon being unable to repair just the hernia. I am certainly concerned about the known reversal risks and possible complications, including short bowel syndrome, as well as not doing the reversal too. I did weigh 112 lbs after surgery but am gaining weight slowly, especially being oddly hungry between meals. I am trying to prepare myself for what seems necessary to have the reversal in early June, especially if the second opinion agrees with the first. I have read countless articles on the subject, some of which are loaded with incomprehensible statistics.
I appreciate any feedback from those who have had or have similar circumstances.

Normally, they advise against fixing a hernia and recommend a support belt. The fact that your surgeon is recommending repair makes me think your hernia is dangerous to your health and must be fixed. Definitely get a second opinion, but you may be stuck, as you say.

I've no experience with a reversal, but opinions are mixed. The fact that you probably need the surgery anyway leans towards reversal.

Yeah... get a second opinion. My gastroenterologist was willing to do reversal surgery on me, but would not fix the parastomal hernia. I would need a second surgeon to step in and attempt hernia repair. At age 66, I refused reversal. Now I just wear a support belt all the time.

You get used to it.

Give it careful consideration. You're older. Parastomal hernia repair can cause its own complications, including infection.

Good luck.

I hope it all turns out right for you, my friend.

Regards, IGGIE

Hi. Having my reversal on Friday. Really nervous. The past nine months with my stoma have had no problems other than disbelief that I even have one. Don't know how I'm going to deal with trauma again as I feel like I just got over it. Good luck to you.

Getting Support in the Ostomy Community with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister

For all those who replied, I'm very grateful. It seems now my real dilemma is regarding doing reversal and hernia repair simultaneously or two separate procedures (mine is not the parastomal but the other kind above the stoma). Tons of tech articles on this very subject and many leaning toward the “two staged approach” for various reasons. My first surgeon casually mentioned he'd do both at the same time. At the time, I had not done any reading, but clearly there is much controversy over these two methods. Regardless of what the second opinion may say, I will need to use the first doctor as he is in close proximity to me in case of emergency, whereas the second is 30 miles in downtown Chicago. And frankly, who am I to dictate the choice? I appreciate any reply from those who have had to contend with this very specific issue.