just spoke with my surgeon regarding reversal...he will do it, but there are factors against doing it so I am very undecided. I am 70years old, had a low rectal tumour removec with chemo and radiation before. Concerned about quality of life post surgery...incontinence, urgency for up to a year. Was so wanting my ostomy bag removed, now I don’t know what to do. Any insights would be most welcome. Thank you
Prizzy
May 16, 2018 2:54 pm
Mrs.A
May 17, 2018 12:48 am
Hi Prizzy,
I'm sorry you are struggling with this decision but I have no incite to provide. I would like to wish you peace and pray you will gain the wisdom in the choice you make. I'm sure other's that have more information will answer soon.
MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,406 members.
“Every morning with my coffee, I read here and feel wrapped in warmth - I hardly post, but it still feels like family.”
“Our oncologist literally wrote down the link; they said more patients need this website.”
“This place pulled me out of the dark. I went from lurking to living again.”
“At 3am, someone’s awake somewhere in the world. I’m never alone here.”
Posted by: Immarsh
Hi Hatlady and all,
I've had my ostomy for over 50 years, since I was a kid, and didn't think I really needed to be part of the ostomy site. But once active, I came to realize, that although I may not need help at the time, I was able to reach out and help others in need. Back in the day, before stoma therapists, I use to visit new patients in the hospital or homes ... While professionals are great, it is also good to be able to speak with people with personal experience. I was a free member for awhile, but after writing often, I was given free months. I then started paying, and decided to just take lifetime membership. After all, I was going to have my ostomy for the rest of my life. I'm one of those people who can disappear for a few months at a time, but I'm always glad that the site is here, I can return and reconnect with old friends, and make new ones. This is an excellent site ... Best regards to all ... and Best wishes for a Healthy and Happy New Year.
vdahl
May 18, 2018 10:54 pm
Hi Prizzy,
I totallly understand your apprehension but I also admire your determination to be sure you're making the right decision - for YOU. I hope your recovery so far has been without incedent. I realize your hospital/doctor visits are a little different than they are in the states so just wondering what kind of support you've had along the way. Have you had much discomfort passing mucus, or do you feel like you have to go to the bathroom even though everything is passing through to the pouch? Did you have issues with constipation before the tumor was removed or is it anything you worry about? Are you pretty comfortable wearing an ostomy pouch? Does the ileostomy have a nagative impact on your lifestyle in any way?
You've actually made me think about how to proceed since my ileostomy in February 2017. I also have pelvic floor damage and colonic inertia so was surprised when they did a loop ileostomy. I didn't think there'd be any hope to have it reversed given my history and age. I'm 65 and had decided it wouldn't make sense to have a take down at "my age"! At this point I feel like having the ileostomy is easier than the horrible pain I used to have with chronic constipation (10 days/2 weeks) but I am having issues with the stoma being able to heal because of the "loop". I recently talked to the surgeon about revising it to an "end" ileostomy.
I'm eager to hear more about your decision; I know you'll make the right one. You've made me take pause - I really appreciate your thoughts. I'll be thinking about you... please keep me posted.
Be well, Vicki
Advertisement
Hollister
Skin barrier extenders are ostomy accessories that can help your skin barrier fit better and last longer.
Learn all about skin barrier extenders.
Learn all about skin barrier extenders.