Considering a Reversal Operation: Pros and Cons?

I'm in two minds about going ahead with a reversal operation.

Can anyone tell me about the pros and cons?

What type of ostomy do you have? Why did you get it?

The chances of a successful reversal depend on many factors, but number one would be whether you have a colostomy or an ileostomy. Colostomy reversals are far more likely to have good outcomes. Your surgeon should discuss your potential risks and outcomes. If you give us more detail, we can be more helpful.

Terry

I had bowel cancer, so now I have a colostomy bag, but I need to know the pros and cons of a reversal.

What part of your large colon was removed? Sigmoid? Descending.... Ascending.... Transverse. Details matter. I have a sigmoid colostomy. We can provide appropriate advice.... just need facts.

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Again, as Beachboy says, more info is needed. How much of your colon remains? Generally speaking, the more colon you have, the better your chances of a successful reversal.

Terry

I had my bowel removed only.

I have a colostomy stoma.

What are the pros and cons of a reversal?

I have an ileostomy and don't feel I am the best to offer advice. They attempted a reversal on me, and it was a disaster. I had to go back into surgery 4 days later. But I do know others who have had successful reversals.

Reversal success is relative.

If your goal is to rid yourself of the bag... and you won't mind possible loose frequent stools and many daily bathroom breaks... then reversal for you would be a success.

If you expect a return to normal... the way you were before the colostomy... reversal might disappoint you.

You said your bowel was removed. Ok. What part, and how much was cut out?

Do you still have your rectum and anus?

You really need to gather the facts about your unique case. Surgical notes. Doctor and test reports. Ask your health care professionals questions about reversal. Ask about infection, leakage, incontinence. And what happens if reversal fails, and you have to revert to an ostomy.

Good luck.

I'm not clear on what kind of surgery you had. You say you had your bowel removed, but have a colostomy stoma. If you have no colon, your stoma would be fashioned from your ileum, and so you would have an ileostomy. Generally speaking, because there are so many variables, the more colon you have, the better the chances of a successful reversal. With just your ileum, it could be more challenging.

Terry