Ileostomy Reversal Concerns After 5 Years

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Ostomate44
Jun 30, 2025 8:01 pm

I saw my colorectal surgeon today after having my flex sig and ileoscopy last week. I was informed that I am a potential candidate to get my stoma reversed and attached (stapled) to the remaining sigmoid colon, but it's been 5 years since I had the stoma created, and I'm somewhat concerned. It's been so long since I used them. I was wondering if anyone else has had an ileostomy created due to Crohn's, but mainly also to help with recurrent C. diff infections. If you have any experience, I would appreciate hearing about your journey and the issues you faced and conquered or still have. I appreciate your time, and thanks in advance for reading my post and any advice you may offer.

Jay

IGGIE
Jul 01, 2025 10:01 am
Very helpful

It's up to you to decide if you go ahead with it, but after 5 years, are you handling your stoma OK? If so, you might even decide to keep it.

IGGIE

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HenryM

If I was a relative newbie with an ostomy, I have no doubt that this site would be very helpful to me.  The members are quick to respond to questions and issues and they are filled with experience.  When I joined, I already had a lifetime with an ostomy, so I just regard it as a place to meet and communicate with other folks similarly situated.  Either way, it is a good site.

Ostomate44
Jul 01, 2025 12:26 pm

IGGIE

Thanks for the response! I'm weighing my options. I've had some rough times with "my little friend." It's been a long road of issues, and I'm trying to decide if the possibilities of the unknown will benefit me or throw me into a worse situation. It's a tough decision and one I don't take lightly, so I'm just trying to research all I can and do what is best for me.

ron in mich
Jul 01, 2025 12:50 pm
Very helpful

Hi Jay, I would think it comes down to how much colon you have, how many bathroom visits a day you want to deal with, and how active the Crohn's is.

Ostomate44
Jul 01, 2025 1:52 pm

Ron

I have 10 inches of sigmoid and very high output now. I was told to expect about 6-7 movements a day, which is less than I have now, but I've learned nothing is guaranteed, especially with my stoma. As far as the Crohn's is concerned, it's being managed with my biologic. Thanks for reading and responding; it's much appreciated.

 

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