Undecided About Ileostomy Reversal at 70

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 

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.

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