How long did it take you to pass a bowel movement after your colostomy reversal? I started passing gas on day 3, but it's day 5 now and no BM as of yet. Is this a worry? Or is it okay since I'm passing gas? Also, how long were you in the hospital?
For context, I have had open surgery for my reversal. The surgeon has said between 7 to 10 days in the hospital. Colostomy was an emergency 2 years ago due to perforated diverticulitis.
You are likely constipated. Both the pain meds and the low-residue diet they put you on post-surgery are constipating.
See if you can wean yourself off the opioids. Try substituting paracetamol. Ask your doctor for other suggestions.
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Have you started eating? My bowel moved 2 days after I started on a liquid diet. Very small, skinny movements at first, but back to normal size after about 6 weeks. I had an ileostomy due to emergency surgery.
I was in the hospital for about a week for my reversal, open surgery like yourself. From memory, it was day 4 when I had my first BM.
But I only had the ostomy for about 7 months, so maybe after 2 years it may take longer for your gut to wake up. Just a thought. Take care and rest up,
