I am 75, and the doctor says I can do a reversal. But I read there are a lot of failures with this procedure for my age group. Has anyone here had a successful reversal in my age bracket?
Pati49
Jun 17, 2025 6:08 pm
eefyjig
Jun 17, 2025 9:27 pm
Pati, I was encouraged to go for a reversal with a j-pouch and wound up opting for a permanent ostomy after five years. The j-pouch was giving me problems, infections, and pain that needed constant meds. I would ask your doctor what he or she considers a "successful" reversal. What will you be facing? J-pouch or just reconnection? Did you have Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's? Do you have good sphincter control? How do you feel about your ostomy? Are you okay with it? Did it give you a good quality of life back? Do you have issues like leaks? Sorry for the ton of questions, but I do think they are all factors in reversal outcome and worth asking about before you make your decision.
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ConnMan
I began my Urostomy life February 27th, 2023...a month and a half ago. I stumbled upon this site from another on Youtube and website called VeganOstomy and between that site and this one, most of my fear and worry of not having any answers other than calling the Dr's office recording menu and hoping to hear back in the next day or two for an answer to leaks, skin irritations etc, or just feeling alone and the "no one understands" thoughts I had to look forward to in my mind were all put to rest by these two websites and the community here at MaO!! I have been here for a few weeks now, and the help and support offered by the members here is just amazing!! The information and support is absolutely priceless for anyone recently out of their surgery and have tons of questions or had it for years...sit down...have a good read and you will see for yourself!!
IGGIE
Jun 18, 2025 1:19 am
G-Day Pati,
I see from your history that you have a colostomy. A colostomy can sometimes have a better result for a reversal than an ileostomy, but I would say if you're handling your stoma well and having no problems, then consider staying with it. If you're a fit and healthy 75-year-old, then consider the operation; if not, you have to decide which way is best for you.
Regards, IGGIE
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