Premium Content

Hello everyone. I just found and joined this site a few days ago. I wish I had discovered it sooner. So many helpful tips and hints that even the hospitals dont seem to know. Anyway, with that being said I begin the count down to my ileostomy reversal. Five weeks from today. I know that sounds like its far away, but in my head it's coming fast and I have no idea what to expect. A brief history...

I am almost 3 weeks since reversal date and all has gone well.  Haven't needed pain meds for 3 days now and am sleeping on my sides again so all that is big progress for me.  The large gaping hole where my stoma was is closing up more each day.  I have times where I am running to the bathroom to get there on time, but not always.  I mostly feel in control but am comforted by being able to have ...

Hi there. It's been just over 12 months since  my colostomy operation due to diverticulitis and peritonitis and now I  am waiting to have a reversal.  I have developed a  hernia behind my stoma (it looks like a perky boob with pursed lips LOL and have another one on the right hand side which the doc tells me is a incisional hernia. I now have what i call my front bum LOL  Hopefully I will have...

Hi I'm a newby so forgive my lack of knowledge but wondered after reading the boards if anyone after having a stoma reversed could offer any help on recovery time. My husband had a reversal of his Ileostomy 20th July 2010. In Jan 2010 he woke up with stoma bag after a 10hr emergency surgery to save his life after a Pancreas Transplant went wrong. Currently he is in a lot of pain, abdomen v...

Hi guys I'm home lying in bed from a procedure to see if my rectum is in good shape for reversal.  I was wondering if anybody has had the same situation as me. And if so how was the healing process? I had cervical cancer 8 years ago. A year later I ended up in Hospital with stomach poison. The general surgeon cut me open to fix an area of radiation damage to the sigmoid COLON. He decided he ...

well that was a tad upleasant! i had my revarsal on the 15th november and today is the first day i have felt any were near ok. there has been a lot of pain and a lot of constipation. i have so far not trusted a fart and for good reson. i have worked out that if i take around 7 mil of lactolose morning and evening i can manage a poo but with out it i am unable to push anything out. if i take ...

I recently had an ileostomy in February. Unfortunately, I had a doctor who completely mislead myself and my mother into believing that I wouldn't need a bag and he could reconnect my colon. He completely betrayed my trust and needless to say, I won't be going back to him again. I've only recently decided to find a new gastroenterologist since I was so betrayed by my previous doctor. Anyways, I ...

Hi ...i had a emergency ileostomy done in feb 2012. I was on life support and in a coma in icu for over 4 weeks. It was a shock to wake up with this bag hanging off me....they said they could do a reversal....in a few months... Well a few months turned into 15 months....because i had a infection and plus the surgery was scheduled 4 times and cancelled....twice by the doctor..to put a emergenc...

I want this to be a topic of the month as everyone seems to think that reversal is the answer..I want people who have great stories to post here as well as any other bad or not so good stories to post here...I want everyone to hear all the good and bad...........Please share,    as I personally believe the medical establishment hangs the proverbial "reversal carrot" out for those of us that are...

Hi all, I am new to this site and I'm looking for advice and support. I was involved in a car crash 6 weeks ago and was rushed to hospital for surgery and woke up with a colostomy bag. This has shocked and scared the hell out of me although the surgeon and doctors have said it's 100% reversible but I have spent the last 6 weeks thinking about 'what if it's not reversible and I have this for the...

I am fairly new to this site and have posted comments to other's threads and now am posting my own story. My son who is 38 years old and developmentally handicapped is having his reversal done on Monday, March 26th. He is pretty nervous about this but happy to be having it done. It has been a very long road for him since August 18/11 when he took extremely ill with Fournier's Gangrene and had ...

The area around my stoma is one huge mess and has been for months. I am now living with pee pads (dog training pads), baby diapers, and paper towels to hold in the poop because my stoma area will not hold a bag for any longer than an hour. This situation has been going on since late June 2019, and I am at my wit's end. I had an ileostomy last October 2018 due to rectal cancer (stage 1) surger...

I had an attempted colostomy reversal, they found yet another leak and now I have an ileostomy.  I am having trouble getting my bag on before any output and it's made the skin below my stoma very red and raw.  Anyone have tips or suggestions? Thanks in advance!

Excited and nervous about my reversal surgery this Tuesday.  Luckily I have one of the best doctors in the country performing my surgery.  My nervousness stems from my brutal emergency Hartmann procedure performed on me while I was on vacation in the Philippines last October when my diverticulitus ruptured.  I think it left me a little shell shocked.  Please send prayers and good vibes my way. ...

  Hi, All.I decided to do it. Friday morning I am going to have a reversal. I just had the colostomy August 22 - so this is pretty soon (from what folks on here have said) but my doctor is very confident. Course he is the guy who punctured my colon during a hernia repair. Perotonitis came next - then - The Bag... The last surgery almost did me in - literally. I admit to being really, really s...

Hi guys! how are you all doing? Just to tell you that my reversal is next week *O*, on november 11th. i'm just so anxious about it! I want to thank you all for the support in these 4 months, you've been a great part of my emotional recovery...Wish I could hug you all! Wish me luck! Paula P.S: Any tips for the next big recovery?

I would like to prepare myself for successful reversal. I would like to hear from those who have gone through this process, what to expect, what to prepare... I love to hear positive experience, not negative one. I am mentally and visually preparing for a SUCCESSFUL surgery! It's going to be successful!! what I know so far are kegal exercise bring wet wipe to the hospital installing bide in m...

a melon sized hernia appeared overnight.. it is uncomfortable but im worred about a few things.. i want to have a hartmans reversal in 12 months and im worried if it will affect the reversal,.. they want to do the op at the time of reversal, but if it gets any bigger and  if they have to operate sooner, will that reduce chance of success? Also im worried about bowel strangulation as i already...

I haven't posted much here in my seven month journey as an Osteomate, but I have read a great deal.  There is so much wonderful support here and, alas, much need for support. My colostomy was the result of diverticulitis, an exploding intestine, and a severe case of stuborness while I somehow decided that intense pain would just go away...even though the pain got to the point where I had littl...

Hi , my name is pippa and I am looking for advise and other people's opinion on colostomy reversal & hernia repair it will be getting done all at the same time, which I think is good. I had a colostomy last July through emergency surgery its a long story so will get to the point I had septicimia, septic shock, all my major organs were starting to close down lots and lots of complications any...

I have a colostomy and have had it now for about 2 months.  My surgeon said it can be reversed and I have a follow up with her in January to hopefully begin the process of testing for the reversal.  She said at my last visit though that sometimes they have to do an ileostomy because things need to heal.  I am so scared that I will go into surgery and wake up with this.  I also am fearful that e...

Am wondering if anyone can share what to expect after reversal surgery? I've read too many horror stories about the pain from gas and severe and frequent bowel movements up to 20 times a day!!! Had ruptured appendix that almost killed me 4 months ago and came out of surgery with a bag. Am so grateful it can be reversed in a couple months    please any stories will help me understand what to e...

I want to make my stoma reversal go as well as possible. I'm very healthy. Doctor just performed a colonoscopy. Green light for surgery. I was thinking about a five day 'fast' before surgery. I fast from time to time to detox, etc. Does anybody know anything about this topic. I would think that a clean, empty colon would be the best possible environment for my doctor to work his magic. Or, am I...

Does anyone here have a j pouch, or know anything about them? ie, are they more trouble than they are worth? do they last, how often will i need the toilet etc.

Hello I had a stoma for about 10 months as I lost 2/3 of my bowel due to an accident. I had the reversal op about a month ago. I have abdominal pain/discomfort almost like muscular pain and a distended stomach. Will this subside? Many thanks Caroline

Hope someone can help. Had a colostomy last May. Went in for reversal operation Oct. 5th. OP did not go well and required two emergency operations during the 6 weeks I was hospitalized. Last op was 7 weeks ago. I suffer from daily diarrhea and actually lose control about every other day. Dr. ordered stool tests for c. diff which I have had and know this is not c. diff. What is going on? Thank...

Hi Everyone. I had my colostomy reversal on Jan. 30th and am still in the hospital. All indications so far are that it will be successful. The pain isn't as bad as the initial surgery in October so I am hoping my recovery will be better as well.  I had a low sigmoid ostomy following a diverticular abscess that would not respond to draining or antibiotics. It has been quite an ordeal. I will kee...

well hiya to all off  you id like to  tell you all about my experience   off  the day On wednesday the 1st feb 2012 i was due to go have a illio reversal to be done well i chickened out off it i refused to have it  as after reading all your comments on the reversal  were they connect  the small intestine to  the  butt  i couldnt go thro with it . as without the large bowl id be running to t...

I have decided to have a permanent ileostomy in Jan 2014 instead of a reversal after weighing up the pros & cons of both. Does anyone else think this is a crazy idea? This is the impression I get from all the different doctors I have met at the hospital following check ups after my 1st OP in Feb 2013. They are quite surprised with my decision and make me feel like I am making a weird choice.

It's been awhile since I have posted but wanted to give everyone an update on my reversal.  I had my reversal done on 12/4/2018 and it's been a little over 6 months since the surgery.  I am doing well and feeling better each day.  The surgery was a success and I never had any problems with bowel control.  At first I was going 3-4 times a morning but now I have 1-2 BM's in the morning before wor...

Keep me in your thoughts and prayers please as I start part two of this journey.  15 weeks ago my world was turned upside down with a ruptured diverticulum and emergency surgery.  My hosptial team was wonderful through the entire process.  Fingers crossed I get the exact same staff who cared for me the first time.  By the time I left the hospital I felt as though I had new family members, not j...

Hi guys, I know I've been gone for a while but with good reason!! Most of you know my story, of how ai got to be an ostomate, read my profile thingy, so I won't bore you with the rest. Here's my story of what I just went through and my reversal. Since my original surgey (hysterectomy) in October when Dr. Malpractice cut my colon, I have had a drainage of pus from my vagina and some horrible ...

I wanted to put a quick update here to let those interested know how I'm doing since my ileostomy reversal 3 months ago. I had good progress for the first 2 months but the past 3 weeks seem to have gone backwards.  I'm still in a lot of pain and spending too much time in the bathroom (8 - 12 x daily).  I am housebound all morning and if I need to go out at all, I fast beforehand.  Gas and cramp...

Went to my surgeons office and given the greenlight to go back to work on 11/4/2019.. that feels good but now my reversal on 11/19/2019.Not sure what to expect. If a few can give me advice onwhat is in store for me would be nice to hear. My surgery was done in 10/24/2019 and now the reversal. Kind of scared but happy at the same time . During my surgery I will keep people updated on how I'm fee...

Hi Everyone I have a temporary ileostomy due to crohn's. The plan was to see if my colon would heal or not. So last month i had a MRI of my small instestine and a colonoscopy of my colon.  When i had my colonoscopy i've already been told that 60% would have to be removed, but 40% would be enough to have it reversed. The thing is the 40% that will stay bleeds easily. I went to see my own doc ...

                    Just left the hospital after my reversal on the 9th. Doesnt hurt as much but have bruise around my stoma area but all an all a success went to the bathroom the 3rd day after surgery nd had about 8 bm . Then 5bm and today just had 1 so far. Dont know what to expect havent passed gas yet which I heard people usually do after surgery guess ill see how it goes .thanks to all tha...

The night of August 16th was probably the most painful night of my life. Starting at 5PM and finally at 4AM on the 17th I let my wife call 911. I was brought to the hospital and diagnosed as having a perforated colon from diverticulitus. If I wasn't on so much morphine I probably would have flipped out. Finally that afternoon they found air floating around my chest area and decided I had to hav...

Im intrested to hear people’s experiences who have had the ‘reverse’.. I hear more stories about what went wrong, than ones that have been successful?  I’ve recently been told it isn’t a ‘standard’ procedure and only up to 10 operations get done per YEAR?!!! 

I am scheduled for my reversal on 12/4.  All my pre-admin stuff is completed and my GI signed off on the clearance letter this morning.  I am super excited and looking forward to not having a bag.  I just hope all goes well and heals good so I don't wake up with a temp bag which will lead to yet another surgery.   I have learned a lot from this website and will continue to be on here even aft...

I have been going through all of the Blogs..Came across one that said they did not want a reversal, because of the pain afterwards....I am due for a reversal in about 2 months, can you please tell me what kind of pain I can expect, other then post surgical????/ Now, I am becoming apprehensive, probably should ask the doctor when i see him in July..please respond if you have any uplifting commen...

I am having my reversal surgery in a little over a week on June 24th and I am really nervous since I had trouble with the first surgery! It was actually two emergency surgeries.. resulting in the colostomy bag! But it saved my life so I can't be to fussy about it.. The first surgeries I was in the hospital 9 days!! I am trying to find out about an average hospital stay for a reversal! I would l...

I have had an ileostomy for 18 years.  I was diagnosed with UC and was incredibly ill for years hence the bag...  I was told I could consider the j pouch op but after years of ill health and then feeling great finally I decided to forgo more surgery and just live with the bag.   Then last week, I spoke to a specislist about a reversal.  He told me he could join me up without the jpouch and rec...

Well it's Saturday morning. My "guts" pretty much woke up yesterday. I've been pretty much constantly passing gas ever since. I'm moving to a liquid diet today, which is good, the ice chips are getting old. They came in a 4AM and asked if I'd like the Foley out, who am I to say no? Seriously it's much easier to walk. At about 5 I realized I was so antsy in the bed I got up and did several laps ...

I had my (emergency) transverse colostomy on December 1st, after a bout with diverticulitis wouldn't resolve, abscesses formed and ruptured.  The doc said we need to wait 6-7 months, at least, before reversing it.  I am wondering what others' experience is in regards to the timeline for reversal.  It seems to me a good idea to wait until everything is healed and strong, yet it also seems like i...

Hi Everyone,       &nbs p;             After having my ileostomy in September 2012 I have been looking forward to being reversed. But to be honest Im not..... my life has been pain free Im back to work, Do I really want to go through pain and discomfort all over again? And lay in hospital when I can go out and live life and enjoy what I have worked so hard for over the past ten months. Getting fit an...

im just curious, are there people like me that have the option to get a reversal from a colostomy but are just plain on the fence with pros, cons, ups downs whatever? And dont do anything? At the rate Im going I just wonder if its all worth it. Wow im 20 months in already. May i have your thoughts.   also,what is the difference between a colostomy and an ilieostomy?

I am a relatively healthy man. I was in a snowmobile accident in January and had to have a colostomy to heal and to stop any infection from my wounds etc. I am scheduled for October and was not told of any risks from my doctor. I have been reading horror stories on this site, and was wondering if I would have the same issues. If anyone could advise me of any news good or bad, that would be gre...

Hi, I had emergency surgery on Fe uary 14th last year for a serious bowel obstruction.  I am now living with Crohns, which is very manageable.  I am able to have a reversal.  I know this sounds bizarre probably, but with having IBS for so many years and suffering with cramps, vomitting episodes and running to the bathroom, my life is actually so much better since having my colostomy. I definite...

Hey! I unfortunately had to have an emergency colostomy due to diverticulitis/peritonitis. It was pretty touch and go during surgery! My surgeon approved me for reversal surgery 6 months post-surgery. It has now been 4 months and he is MOVING! So I have to get a new surgeon in the next 2 months! Super stressful. I'm really nervous about what to expect after the reversal. I have read some horr...

I thought everything was all set with my colostomy reversal . Now I'm in pain with illestomy.  Broke my heart.  Mentally drain. Just need advice because I cant find out what really happen during surgery . Went in at 520am and woke up with illestomy 715pm  in stead of at least a stoma would of been ok. Sorry to ramble on and on. 

Had my ostomy on 8-29-19 spent 8 days in ICU woke up with a reserator thought i was dying. Had to rush to the ER 3 days before sugery date due the pain 12 number, spent 18 days total in the hospital. Pain through the roof for the whole time in there. had my reversal 1-29-20 spent 4 days ICU 11 days total in the hospital. Doing pretty good over all getting some wierd pains on an off in my belly...

hi there, Anyone out there who has went through the reversal of their colostomy.  I have heard good and bad regarding this.  I think I would like to hear some more of the good before I commit myself to have this procedure. The colostomy itself was not too bad except that I had septia and peritonitis and almost died twice.  Now that that is all over and done with I am scared to go back and hav...

To all of my wonderful ostomates, thank you for your support, advice and encouragement.  I wanted to let you all know that my surgery date was just bought forward to tomorrow (Friday, feb 19) instead of Monday.  I promise to post as soon as I am well enough to let you know how it all went.  I am scared to death but hopeful of success. To Rachel, Happy birthday for Monday!  To Hannah, I hope you...

Is this much trouble comon place? In Feb 2010, they discovered a non-cancerous tumor between my colon and my bladder. I also had diverticulitis. They removed a the tumor and 8 inches of my colon in May 2010. Four days later my colon came back apart. Emergency surgery and I woke up with a bag on my stomach. I was in the VA hospital for a whole month. I also lost 50 pounds while I was in the ho...

Hi everyone, I am a US expat who has lived for the past 14 years in adeveloping "2nd /3rd" world country in Latin America (Costa Rica).  I had an emergency colostomy (Hartmann's?) in August 2016 (performed at a public hospital here in Costa Rica) after suffering a perforated colon from previously undiagnosed diverticultis.  I am a 37 year old male. I have no other known health problems beside...

I had a LAR with ileostomy in Dec 2018. After the post-surgery chemo, my doctor is pushing a reversal. Prior to the LAR I had radio/chemo. It was successful as the pathology report showed that cancer has been downgraded from stage 3b to stage 0. I had 27cm (10.6") removed which included all my rectum and probably most if not all the sigmoid. I also had some burning / scarring in the 'back passa...

Well I've been home three and a half days now. The staples come out next Tuesday. Things have settles into some semblence of a routine. The post surgical pain has mostly subsided, but I must say the staples are very irritating to my skin. It's Itch City. I can manage with Tylenol. I even had a sneezing fit earlier and it wasn't so bad. The trips to the bathroom are still more than usual, but ha...

My reversal was a complete success.   It was even more brutal than the first surgery but I'm starting to really come around now.   I'm going to take my second chance at life and live it to the fullest.   Funny story.  My surgery was on March 10th.  The hospital cancelled ALL non life threatening surgeries on March 11th and on indefinitely because of the coronavirus!   I got my surgery just in t...

Hi, just to keep you all up to date I had my operation on the 14th October was in hospital for 5 days I have done very well all seems to be settling down obviously tender and sore. I have been told not to lift anything for a while and certainly to avoid anything heavy. However I do have a question when you suffer with a hernia and you get it repaired and you give it plenty rest over the wee...

Has anyone had an ileo then gotten a j-pouch made and been reversed? I have a preop visit with the surgeon in a few weeks and am pretty nervous about the coming surgery. I want to know what I am in for. I'm not thrilled about having an ileo but in some ways its not so bad

Hi, my name is Paula and i am new I had a hysterectomy surgery last August and it went BAD my bladder was clipped along with my large intestines so i had to have a ostomy bag for 3 months, thankfully last December i had the reversal and i was wondering if anyone has had any problems with their reversal its been 8 months and i still have swelling, pain, weird noises and movement in my stomach c...

I had my operation just before Xmas 2011, and I will be talking to my surgeon in a few days about the possibility of a reversal. Are there any complications getting things to work again. What about leaks? I have heard that reversal surgery is quite common.....That makes me wonder why they don't do it that way to start with?

I had an ileostomy since January 2012 due to cancer.  It is a temporary one but I had an anastomosis leak in my pelvic area so it was hard to fix.  I just had a surgery to put some of my stomach muscle around that part of my colon and they were able to close up that pocket.  I am scheduled for a reversal on May 22.  I am very excited but have a few questions.  I have never posted on this site b...

Greetings all.  I stumbled across this web site last night and would really appreciate any advice from the community here on a potential upcoming ostomy reversal.  This is my first post here and I apologize in advance for the length. I’m ~6 weeks out of the hospital from emergency surgery that involved: removal of a (non-cancerous as it turns out) blocking mass in my colon (that was bad enou...

I've recently gotten a colostomy reversal and I'm completely regretting it. I'm 18 years old, and I went into the hospital last year for a 'simple' delormes procedure to fix an anal prolapse and hernia. During the operation the surgeon sewed a stitch too tightly which created a small hole in the back of my bowel. I was sent home from the hospital a day later beleiving I was going to be okay, bu...

Hello All I really dont know what i am seeking from this post exactly. Just general support I guess so here goes My Story, my fears, and indecision. Last year on May 26th I was diagnosed with Colon Cancer. I did amazingly well with that. No radiation but did do 6 months of Chemotheraphy. Finsished my last treatment on Feb 8th of this year. I was left with a colostomy bag and at first thought ...

Three months since my reversal and feeling great.   This scar might not look very appealing but compared to how it first looked its a major improvement.   I won't be taking my shirt off at the beach this summer but I'm looking forward to getting on my surfboard again.   Hope you all are doing well and staying safe.  Chuck.

Hi everyone.       Just thought I'd chime in to let you know my progress.  I had a colostomy takedown on March 10th of 2020.  I had the Hartmann procedure in October of 2019 due to diverticulitis.  Long story there. But anyway,  things are going extremely well.  (knock on wood).  I feel great, I've been working out again and getting back to my old hobbies.  I went from 185 pounds before the f...

Dec 6 had my reversal after being turned down by surgeons.  Found an specialist  that did a great job. Going for last check up tomorrow.  Had colostomy since May 08, my advice; find the best doctor you can afford, get lots of referrals and check out how often they do your type of surgery. General surgeons don't do as many and specialist have seen every variation you may have.  Best of luck, Faith...

I am having a reversal of my ostomy and a repair of a hernia the size of a grapefruit next week. The doctor says I will be in the hospital a week.  Is there anything I should be looking out for? It would be so nice to hear from someone who has had the surgery in the past.

SO I went in for a colostomy reversal on 12/27/11 as you may know, and everything went textbook, and went well. I was released from the hospital on 12/30 and all seemed to go fine. Through the course of that night I started running low grade fevers and took ibuprofen and it went away by morning. SO I thought it was all ok. Over the course of the day I started getting more frequent abdominal pai...

Hi, i had a stroke in august of 2011 and soon after they found a tumor in my large colon, upon having it removed i was left with an illestomy and annoyingly very little support after the first time i needed to change my pouch (so all my "knowledge" is self taught from trial and error and blogs online and such, so appologies if i use a wrong term). I was due to have my reversal in may but i was...

I got a colostomy in April 2012 after being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Since then the Dr. has found more polyps in my sigmoid colon. None of them have been malignant. My family history includes a lot of cancers which have proved to fatal. What I'd like to know is what are the disadvantages to having the surgeon remove the rectum, anus, and sigmoid colon removed and having a permanent col...

Hi All, I had my reversal on the 23rd of august. Woke up with at 2:30pm with a massive hole in the side of me which i knew i would do anyway but its still a shock as it is really massive, The first 48 hours were ok, I was walking by 10:00pm that night (as instructed by surgeon). The 48 hours after that was not soo good I was in unbelievable pain, and started vomiting. I lost my appetite and...

what can I expect after my reversal?

Hello everyone hope all is well. Due to get my reversal June 9th, I was just wondering what to expect after having the reversal.  Heard some bad stories and don't know anyone personally that had to deal with this and feed back would be nice. Thanks in advance

My reversal surgery is set for December 4. You would think I'd be celebrating but I am really scared. My last surgery almost killed me. Plus I do not hear a lot of great things about reversals. Are there any happy stories out there about reversals that went well? It is only about 5 weeks since I got my ostomy and it is about 5 weeks til surgery is scheduled. I have not had time to "get used" ...

Received an emergency colostomy due to a diverticulitis induced bowel rupture on july 11th...  Been a tough road but thanks to everyone here who has shared past or previous experiences, my temporary predicament pales by comparison.  I was fortunate to have the entire procedure done laparoscopically and according to the surgeon, so will the reversal.  He did mention the small chance of it becomi...

Just joined this site a few days ago.  Better late than never.  About 8 weeks ago I had surgery for a diverticulitis attack.  Besides the normal inflamation, I had developed a Micro-perforation and an abcess which prompted the emergency surgery.  After 2 seperate CAT scans in 2 weeks that they did, they never noticed the abcess.  I blame part of it on the first hospital I was in.  It was a teac...

here is an up date for any one following my progress.  operation 15th november 2011 the hartmans reversal, with mesh for  repair of inscitional hernia went well , till my tummy got bigger and bigger and eventualy split open spilling 3 pins of exulate.  on the 12th december , 2 days in hospital with IV antibiotics and then home on oral antibiotics and a stoma bag on the wound. exulate out put...

This is the first time I have posted on this site.  I've been reading it for a while and all of you have helped me feel less like a freak and given me hope.  I started with this whole thing last May with pain which I chose to ignore because I was afraid of cancer.  Many people in my family have had cancer and I was three weeks away from my son's wedding. When it got bad and I went to a special...

Hi all. My mother was recently in a head on car accident (oct 03 '14) in Spain - visiting from the UK for a friends birthday - and it resulted in her having some of small bowel removed under emergency conditions due to heamoraging, I am here to find some advice for her. She now has an ileostomy from this surgery (05 oct). After about a week in ICU she is now in a *normal* room with her husband...

Been lurking for a month and want to give Kudos to all for sharing their knowledge and experience. Back in the first week of May I had bleeding diverticulosis and after the first surgery there was a leak that caused (for the life of me I can't think of the word) an infection which required a second operation to drain the area that resulted in the Ileostomy. So last week I met with the surgeon...

Has anybody had a ostomy reversal and how did it go

As a result of findings after colonoscopy I'm told Due to the inflammation and age not a good idea Because tissue may not hold well i could get a Infection from a leak which could be very serious.  I wasn't crazy about surgery its been 4 yrs now So I guess I waited too long.  Anyone thinking About reversal don't wait to long!  I had surgery because of  diverticulitis told I could reverse ...

Stage 4 colon patient here, Mets to lungs, liver, nodes.  59 yro had original resection with resulting ileostomy.  Wanted bag gone 8 months later had reversal.  Been total disaster with incontience, pain, and burning.  Having colostomy placed in 3 days.  Wondering about eating habits with a colostomy as all I seem to see is ileostomy cases.  Did fine with my ileostomy but was busy every 2 hours...

I need some advice or maybe just some support! I am three years in with an Ostomy. I have tried to accept it and live with it but I hate it! My cole rectal surgeon said I he would not ever reverse me considering I have had four colon resections and almost died from the last one. I have Crohn’s disease. I have to admit I was a mess before the Ostomy. Always in the hospital missing time with my f...

I have had my stoma since sept 24th 2019 and iam due to have a reversal done around Thanksgiving week I was told by the surgeon but the the incision where the stoma is sticking out of has got smaller from like a 32 to about a 26 oval shape does that usually happen? Also I'm so ready to go back to work... Just need advice about how much longer should I expect to be unable to go back to work and ...

Hi everyone. I always said I was chicken shit to have the reversal done cause of pain. Now I have a hernia that can only be accessed by cutting me open. I've decided to go for the reconnection. Surgery is early Dec. I so wish it was behind me, no pun intended. I really like this site, to know there are people going thru or already been through things that I knew nothing about when I first got ...

Hi, this is my first post on this site.  I had Diverticulitis back in early May and my colon perforated on May 8th.  It was undiagnosed prior to that so it was a total surprise.  I had an emergency colonectomy and they removed part of my Sigmoid colon. Apparently the problem started a couple of weeks before and I passed it off as food poisoning.  I felt that pain again on the 8th and thought it...

Hi all.  Looking for feedback from anyone who has had a reversal or is being considered for one.  I am 3-1/2 months post ileostomy and my surgeon has said I am a candidate for a reversal.  He wants to scope me next month to make sure everything "looks good and healed" and if it does he plans to do a reversal in March which will put me at 5 months post ileostomy.  Originally he told me six month...

Hi, I am scheduled for colostomy reversal surgery and incisional hernia repair in 2 weeks.  Has anyone here had these procedures or know of anyone who has with a positive outcome? Everything I've read on line so far is making me want to back out!!

Hi. Two weeks ago I had my colostomy reversal surgery and wonder if others out there would be willing to share their experiences with me on pain, any issues after surgery (what I should look out for) and any long-term issues as a result of having the colostomy or reversal surgery. I only had my colostomy for 9 weeks before the reversal (got it early Jan 2017 as a result of emergency surgery to ...

Good day, I have a question here. Is it possible to get a colostomy reversal even though the rectum and the anus was removed?

Hello everyone/anyone, i'm due to see my doctor and would really like to try for a reversal of my illeostomy, i have been previously told that the chances are slim because of scar tissue, has anyone got experience with this sort of problem.  I really want the good and the bad news as i would prefer to go at it with a realistic attitude. Thanks

Just wanted to report that I have just completed the first of two surgeries needed to complete my reversal/reconnection. Actually I had considered it for years & had already decided not to undergo the surgeries. I had a good system & had learned to live quite comfortably w/ my ostomy, plus at my age I just didn't want to go thru all the time, pain & discomfort. Then the peristomal hernia I had ...

Hello I am new to posting in a forum, but have read many different posts by other people. I have had Crohns since I was 18 and had five separate operations in that time removing parts of damaged bowel. My last operation was to give me a temporary colostomy to give my bowels arest and repair a fistula that was continually causing infection. I was told when the surgery was performed that reversal...

This is the first time I post something here and I want to say that reading your stories has inspired me, made me laugh and feel virtual support so many thanks for that. After many attempts at fixing my recto-vaginal fistula the surgeon decided to make me a temporary ileostomy in the hopes that it would help things heal. I've had my stoma for 16 months now and in two weeks if the last fistula ...

I am new here and only have had my "Stella" for 4 weeks. My doc is talking about reversal at 3 months. I had total colectomy with ileostomy for UC and ischemic colitis. I have a very liquid output right now and am wondering a couple of things. When will my output thicken? Is anyone on meds for thickening? Thoughts on the reversal-should I wait longer? Will it improve my quality of life? Not thr...

well waited nine years for my opp now its all over had the reversal 14 days ago and all going great out of hospital and all working well was loose to start but now more controlled feeling a little sore but on the whole feel fantastic. Each day is improving went so well I keep pinching myself to see if im awake I am now so positive things will be ok now so all you out there about to have a r...

hello all, name is Mike, im 25 and on Aug 17th of this year will be two years since i have had a colostomy, i got shot point blank in the stomach and was operated on for 8 hours and i awoke to 37 staples and a healing ostomy not yet in use... while in the hospital 20 out of 37 staples were removed to reduce the possibility of infection because the incision had turned REDD.. 4-5 months went by...

Hi all.  Been a while since I've posted.  On March 4th I finally went in for my reversal.  Since that time I've been incredibly sick.  I've lost 10 lbs.  My nausea has been the worst ever and I've got constant abdominal pain (not surgical pain but gut pain).  To top it off, unlike most who undergo a reversal and suffer with diarrhea, I am incredibly constipated and unable to go.  I was just hos...

I am new to this forum.  I had an ileostomy for one year and just had it reversed in August of 2014.  I am having a difficult time and would like to meet individuals and have them share their experiences with me.  I am seriously considering going back to the bag as I definitely feel that my quality of life was better.  I should have done more research on my own.  However, my surgeon explained a...

15 weeks after my emergency sigmoid colostomy surgery I am bag free and doing pretty good. I had read so many horror stories about reversals I decided to keep myself offline. I opted to be upbeat physically mentally and spiritually before reversal. I still have some pink colored drainage from where stoma was and it’s sore but it’s managable. I take 8 extra strength Tylenol a day as I won’t do a...

Last October my intestines ruptured had emergency surgery ended up with colostomy bag I since went back to surgeon and he says it's a "major"surgery and will have to reopen my surgery scar again I'm scared to have reversal because of previous wound cut wide open again Also was told he regulates pain with epidural or spinal tap That really scares me because I've never had one so concerns of side...

Hi, there, I have responded to two mates with questions on this subject so far.  All I can say is I had mine done July 1, 2009.  I had the take down on the colostomy, 2 hernias and what my surgeon said was a 'tummy tuck'.  He did extensive surgery on me. Was in the hospital 5 days until they are sure there are bowel sounds.  After I got home the first few weeks were not the best.  Not all my ...

what is a reversal? I just had ostomy surgery 2months ago and am a bit confused. Even if they can't do a J-pouch thereis still other surgeries?

i have not posted in a while but I had sucessful ostomy reversal surgery.  I really did not have many problems from the surgery.  Praise th Lord Jesus Christ I no longer have an ostomy bag!  I was so sick from various infections I almost died three times.  I am over 6 feet tall and I got down to 16o lbs and was bony.  Through a high protein diet and exercise I now weigh 205 lbs and I am muscula...

Hi guys, im due to meet my surgeon on the 16th and hopefully arrange my illestomy reversal after having it since august of 2011, i was taken into hosptial in june 2011 from having a stroke and after about 8 weeks of testing they found a tumor in my colon and then i was left with an end illestomy (my appologies if thats the wrong term but i never got told how to cope with this and everthing i kn...

Has anyone had a reversal even though you have short bowel syndrome and did it help?   Is the stool still liquid after reversal and is it hard to control bowel movements?

I had a temp ileo in 2011 for 11mons due to a Carcinoid tumor in my rectum. I had a Lower Anterior Resection with Meso Excision (lymph nodes removed). I have been reconnected for 5 mons and overall things are doing well. I would like to hear from others who have had this type of surgery and still have your rectum and colon. I have pain sometimes and pressure like the feeling of something down ...

Hi everyone...just a quick note to say how much I like this forum.  It has been uber help to me and so many other people with ostomies. My question is - does anyone out there know whether a reversal is covered by Medicare or is it considered a personal choice and therefore not covered.  I could not afford to have one if it is not covered. Judi

Me again.  I keep writing because I find myself so lost in this whole thing.  Question for anyone out there that has undergone ileostomy reversal.  I've been told if all goes well and I heal well I should be able to undergo ileostomy reversal in 6 months but before that I will have to successfully complete a defecating proctogram.  Because my rectal muscles don't work real well I did not do wel...

Hello all this is my first post here, i am 25 years old, when i was 23, i was robbed and shot point blank in the stomach, i woke up with 37 staples and a colostomy bag, i was initially promised a reversal 4 months after my stomach wound healed up, the doctor lied to me so many times i really dont wanna go into it i have taken all tests required to do a colostomy reversal and i am good to go, b...

I am going to see my doctor on Tues., July 1 about having a reversal done.  I don't mind telling you I am scared to death to have it done from some of the horror stories I have heard.  Can those who have had it done or know of people that have had one done please give me some question to ask the surgeon.  One reason I am scared is that the doctor that performed my surgery was with this practic...

I have just last week had the final part of my reversal surgery and am now fully connected, (which am I very glad about) I was unaware till after the surgery that this meant I would have an small open incision/hole left where my stoma used to be. I am aware this is to allow the wound to heal from the inside out to prevent any type of infection which makes sense. It has to be re-packed and re-dr...

Had colon and gallbladder removed March 25th, 2014. Nervous like so many others about life after reversal. My surgeon tells me that I can "manage" bowel movements with an anit-diahreal med. He says I will be on this for rest of life as well as the sulfasalazine I'm taking now to prevent recurrence of the ulcerative ileo-colitis that afflicted me. I drive a truck for a living, so the bag actuall...

Has anyone with just a stump for a rectum had a successful.reversal . I am 74 years old and my DR. said he could do it now. He will not do it after I am75. Hope to get some answers. Thanks, Joyce

Hi all! I am a 48 yo male and am one week post ileostomy takedown. I had a temp ileostomy for 5 months due to a bowel resection for diverticulitis. I read many horror stories online in my quest for information and i have to say I couldn't be happier with the way things have turned out.I had my surgery on Feb 19 at 8:30 am and by midnight I could feel my bowels starting up. The sounds were incre...

I had a colostomy reversal 2 weeks ago after a gastric perforation related to diverticulitis in Oct 2018. It has been a tough recovery but all seems to be improving at this time. At first bathroom trips were 4-6 times per day and has become less frequent now. Staples came out yesterday and wound looks great. Currently on low fiber diet. Eating small frequent meals. Starting to venture out of th...

hi folks, well i had the reversal surgery Dec 3. Suppose I should change my name to Nostom from Newstom 3 1/2 years ago when I signed up Thank you for all the comments and prayers. I must say it was brutal for me but I thank God so far so good! I have a wound vac on the stoma site which is on 24/7 for about 4 weeks, its now a mini crater. The cut down the center is longer than the original surg...

I got the great news yesterday that my ostomy reversal surgery is scheduled for March 10th!  Doctor said that I should be good as new in about 2 months after the surgery and my scar on my stomach will fade.  I said "That's ok.  I'm excited to get my life back.  And you know what Evel Knievel says about scars?   "Bones heal, pain is temporary, and chicks dig scars!"

Looking for opinions on ileostomy reversal...my surgeon has told me I can in fact get this reversed, as soon as next month. I'm wanting to be sure this is the thing to do. Just looking for others opinions or what they would do in the same position. Being still new to this, there may be things I have no clue to think about before making this big decision. I also have Crohns to factor in as well....

Hi everyone I have a illeostomy no large bowel and part of rectal stump removed due to narcosis unknown cause? My consultant has told me that there's a chance I might be able to have it reversed but I will need to get tests done first. Does anyone know what these tests might be? Thanks XX

I post this here, and on other forums of similar subject manner so people facing a comparable 'reversal' situation can read my experiences. Comments and questions are most welcome. I was driving home from work in December 2008, when i was hit by a young man who was attempting a reckless maneuver at insanely high speed. Ultimately, He crossed into my lane and plowed directly in to the driver's ...

Tramidol is somthing i am allergic too, like Morphone and that Phamily and is dangrerous.  Take Lorace or Other Pain Pills Not related to what I am Allergeic too.  I have Major surger in OCT. I will have the surgery as a Cathoic and making out a living willl.   Go by what you can live with Love JG or Jenny

I certainly would like to know too, if there will be any problems after a hernia and ilieostomy reversal.  I'm scheduled for that on April 7th and needless to say, with  a scheduled operation, I'm a little apprehensive.   My stoma seems to be growing every day and it seems that I need to cut the hole bigger on my flange so that I don't pinch it.  I, lol of course, thought that the stoma was t...

I had surgery about three years ago I had a blockage and it was emergancy surgary. A year later I went in for the reversal but there was so much infection the Dr. said It was like an explosion going off. the Dr. sniped a vain Ilost 2/3 of my blood supplie. I only have a stump left for a rectum. My Dr. tells me that he can do the reversal but it will take a year out of my live and I will have a ...

Hello everyone! I am new around here...I'm 22 years old and I had a hartman's colostomy on july because of a car accident that caused a rupture in my bowel. It has been very  hard for me to accept all that happened, since I am so young, just graduated in the university, have a boyfriend and so on and so forth. My reversal is scheduled for november, but I've heard so many bad things that I'm a ...

OK, so I dont know if any of you know my past, but long story short blah blah blah LOL I had diverticulitis, and went in to have it removed, well 4 surgeries later 2 of which were emergency one's, this last one on 12/31/2011...yup ringing in the new year under the knife, at least I got to spend it with someone (albeit my surgeon ) who I dont get along with. Well she has told me that she won't...

Lets talk about what my nurses call diaperless diaper rash. In january I had a sucsesfull reversal but I am haveing problems with diapeer rash no matter how carfull I clean and dry after each use

Hey Yall! Just wanted everyone to know that I am home from reversal surgery. I took that first poop post op day FOUR & came home post op day NINE. I just thought I would get that out of the way straight off since I knew those would be the first two questions!!! LOL!!! I was cut from my sternum to my pelvic region (approx 18") - the stoma site was left open to heal from the inside out.  I am s...

Hi, everyone.  I've never posted here but I've been a reader who benefittted tremendously from your help and guidance.  I'm one month post-reversal and all is going well.  I put together an extensive checklist of things I found useful, indispensable or comforting during my hospital stay.   Here it is: For sore butt:xmlo/o -      & nbsp;   Soft toilet papero/o -      &nbs p;   Flushable wipeso/o -      &nbs p;...

Does anyone here have experience with an ileostomy due to UC and yet be able to have a reversal? I still have all my small intestine and 6 inches of my rectal stump. My original surgery was an emergency due to perforated bowel and mega colon. I had had issues for a year with no real help. Then came the emergency. No one really seems to know what caused this, but UC is inferred. I KNOW it all ...

I'm sure this questions been asked many times.... As mentioned on my profile I've put off getting the Reversal done for around 5 years.Aside from being a bit unsure of the outcome there were other circumstances too,unfortunately. I was to get it done about 2 years ago,but my dear Wife of 16 years,Tracey was rediagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer in June 2014,but this time it was through he...

I am new to this site and wanted to join to learn more about having a reversal done.  I go for a colonoscopy on 1/9 to make sure everything looks good and a reversal can be completed.  I had a sigmoid colostomy done in March 2016.  I have Crohn's disease but my Crohn's has been in remission and well controlled for the last 18 months or so.  I don't mind the colostomy and have been OK mentally d...

Hi all - five months ago I had to have an emergency colostomy due to diverticulitis and then developed an abcess in my leg which meant another surgery the next day.  I was septic and the doctors told my husband and son " to prepare themselves"  I was in the hospital for l3 days and during that time was unconsious for about  a week.  Obviously the very worst thing that has even happened to me.  ...

Hi all Awhile ago I was very unsure as to have my colostomy reversed . The decision is now that im not having the reversal totally my choice. After seeing my surgeon the risks are to high because of the fact of the prednisone im on for my severe psoriatic arthritis. I tried weaning off it for three mths which saw my inflammation levels go through the roof. Because of this drug the reconnection ...

After I had my bag taken off I thought things would be good but I found that I can have loose bowels and doctor said take anti diarrheal pills three times a day. If I don't do that then I will have loose bowels and that is a problem. These pills are over the counter type.....It is hard if your out somewhere to get to a bathroom quick enough so I pretty much stay home where I feel safe...I am a ...

ReversalHi all...Just a question. Has anyone out there experienced a GOOD reversal? I have one scheduled in a couple of months, and am a bit nervous about the complications many of you have said might happen? Cheers!

Hi there - you can post on the Forum if you are a free member - because I do and am! Will post your question below - not something I can comment on as haven't as yet had one - and despite having NO bowel disease not sure if I ever will! Am sure you will get plenty of responses though ..... Rach xx My husband had a reversal of his Ileostomy 20th July 2010...just wanted advice on recovery time....

My wife has had a reversal but has been finding that even after 4 years she still has to constantly visit the loo , making her very sore , we are unable to go for a walk any distance unless there are public toilets nearby , we cannot go to the theater or cinema , on our last visit to the hospital she was asked if she would like to have a colostomy which we are told she would only have to visit ...

My surgeon tells me you can't get a reversal after four years. Anyone know how long  you can wait, i didn't know there was a limit.  Mine was done it Dec 2005, he said i'm at a high risk and i have three large hernias too from the surgery, which makes my belly pertrude on the side. I still want to have more information on this and maybe get this done one of these days.  I have Lupus, thats what...

Hi.  I had my ileostomy reversal surgery 2 1/2 weeks ago.  My abdomin is really swollen and I can't wear regular pants, only loose fitting sweats.  This swelling will go away - right?  Does anyone know how long it will take the swelling to go down? Thanks Kerry

Hi everyone. I have been reading your posts since I had an emergency sigmoid colostomy performed on Oct 6. This is my first time posting. My reversal is scheduled for Monday Jan 30th and my doctor has prescribed a bowel prep called Moviprep. I took half the prescribed amount prior to my first surgery as I have a very sensitive colon. However my doctor is recommending the full 2 course prep this...

My reversal and hernia surgery is tomorrow, Feb 3rd!  I've been on the clear liquid diet since yesterday at 4:00 so I'm feeling quite hungry about now.  It's funny how food looks and smells so great when you can't have it.  I'm nervous and anxious for tomorrow to come.  I pray all will go well and all of you on this site have helped me with all of your encouragement and information.  I am truly...

Hello, hoping can get some info from others who have had iliostomy reversals, feeling quite anxious...... Just had my reversal last week and out of hospital yesterday.  I had some issues with severe gas and vomiting so was on liquid diet for most of my time in there.  I finally passed some gas and very loose stool and they let me go yesterday after only having one very small regular meal there...

hello all finally had my reversal after 3 yrs. I swear I would never recommend it to anyone. I went thru so much pain and iam still recovering from it. I had it july 9th. My question is, is there anyone else who has had it done and what are some of the things they experienced. I had an infection sit in my stomach where they stapled me. I had to re-enter the hospital and they had to cut me open ...

I am new to this, so I will tell my story and then see what comments are  made. Ok, well back in 2011 I was diagnosed with cervical cancer so I started chemo and radiation. I had 35 radiation and 4 weeks of chemo and also 4 internal radiation. went back to work felt fine even thru 2012. well Jan. 3 2013 my stomach started hurting severly went to dr they thought it was gall b ladder so they took...

I had my colostomy five months ago. My doc says now is time for the reversal surgery but I'm more than a bit worried. I'm 72, 25 pound overweight but otherwise in good health. Surgery itself scares me but I'm mostly concerned about post surgery. I keep reading about loss of control, leakage, mad dashes to the toilet, diaper pads etc.. Maybe I'm better off with the bag? Advice, suggestions, expe...

Hello all you good people out there -- Has anyone had to have an ileostomy because of Radiation Damage? In January 2012 I had a major operation for Cancer. The operation was successful and the tumour removed from my womb. THEN I was advised to have Radiotherapy just in case?? ---I had six weeks every day Radiotherapy and started to complain of symptons from the second week. Uncontrollable dia...

Hi my name is Shirley.  Looking for reversal surgery experiences.  I had an ileostomy surgery 3/2016 after a failed resection surgery. Planning reversal for August. I have Crohns disease. 

Hi.  Im new to this site...Im Wendy.  I had my colostomy in June of 2016, due to Crohns disease and several other issues.  I wanted to see what some of you think who either had the reversal done or the stump removal, and whether youre happy with your decision.  ITs coming up on a year for me, and if I find out I am eligible to have it reversed Im not sure if I want to.  Its kind of nice not run...

I am a healhy 47 year old that have always excersized and taken pride and care of myself, athletic ..etc. On December 22nd 2017, I went to poop that morning and ended up in excruciating pain. Went to the Emergency room...after 2-3 hours, they told me my colon had ruptured. They removed 9 inches of my sigmoid colon, surgery lasted 3.5 hours because I was so septic and almost died. Spent 11 days ...

I am now 18 months post colostomy and Dr. Said I am a candidate. I have been reqding Charolttew post, it soumds like you went through qn ordeal! I am unclear about recuperqtion and why it tqke 6 week. Are you bedridden? Weqr diapers all the time? One of my beiggest feqrs is the pain. I qm a wimp. I dont reqlly wqnt to have an ostomy forever but on a good dqy I tw like what the heck? I also thnk...

I have a date for my ileostomy reversal, for September, but I honestly can not decide whether  I want to go through with it.. I dont particularly want to spend the rest of my life with the bag, but at the same time I dont want to have the reversal done and spend most of my days inside the loo or needing the loo and being too friegthened of going out in case I have an accident, im starting to ge...

Hi  I am interested in hearing from people in Ireland who had colsostomy reversal surgery. Thanks 

Having ileostomy reversal on Feb 5th. I have no colon. Dr.  said to expect 3-6 bms per day. I don't know what to expect after surgery: fatigue, weight loss/gain, accidents? Anybody?

It's funny how I can still relate to my ostomates. It's been almost 7 yrs since my reversal from an ileostomy due to cancer and a lower anterior resection. Sometimes when I am having a bad day, I like to come on here and it brings me a sense of comfort. It's hard to explain. It has gotten better but definitely still NOT a bed of roses. Due to my resection being so low I still have a lot of bowe...

Hello AllWell, I had my colostomy reversed 2+ weeks ago after partial colon resection with colostomy due to ruptured Diverticulitis on Easter Sunday. The first 2-3 days went well with expected pain. That’s when the wheels started to fall off. I developed an Ileus (gi tract not moving causing fluid build-up). My Dr and I discussed not using an NG tube unless necessary (bad choice on my part). By...

My husband had an emergency colostomy August 2nd 2011 due to a bowel rupture and an E coli abcess in his abdomen from diverticulitis.  He had his reversal done on Nov. 16th. Everything went very well.    Surgery was on Wednesday afternoon and he was home on Monday.  On 1st day post op - bowels started working and he was passing gas, and by Saturday had his first BM and all was fine.  He did h...

Hi, I have just joined the site and looking for anyone who has had a Hartmann's reversal and abdominal hernia repair done at the same time. I had emergency surgery in April and nearly died due to infection and my wound didn't heal for about 2 months I cannot have the hernia repaired without having a reversal and Iam really scared as I had no intention of having a reversal for a while as I feel ...

Hello Everyone, I just came across this site late last night and am so glad I found it. Husband admitted through the ER on March 31st.  He unexpectedly experienced a perforated colon due to diverticulits which resulted in having surgery after 10 days of antibiotic treatment in the hospital. They removed his sigmoid colon and a portion of his rectum on April 10th. He was given a temporary ileo...

I had my reversal 2 weeks ago and am wondering how long I should wait to have sex any information appreciated. Thanx

I HAVE A COLOSTOMY W A STOMA HAD SINCE OCT 2010   EVERYONE SAYS "GET IT REVERSED " WELL IM TOO SCARED TO DO IT I GOT REALLY SICK AFTER MY SURGURY NEARLY DIED   HAS ANYONE OUT THERE  HAD A SUCSESFULL REV? IF SO WHAT WERE THE CPMLICATIONS?

I have bee rubbish on here - only made a few posts and then vanished to 'normal' life but I think that's a good thing.  I am a 33 year old professional single mum of one and I coped pretty well I think with having a stoma for 2 years.  I have just had my final appointment with the nurse (for dressing checking) four weeks after my reversal surgery.   I'd be happy to chat with anyone who's recen...

Hello!! I have had my ileostomy due to Crohns Disease since 2009.  It was my understanding at the time that it was permanent and over time I accepted it and went on with life. Recently my gastro doctor asked me if I'd like to have a reversal done and that my Crohns has been in remission.  I have been cleared by the colo-rectal surgeon and all they need now is my ok. I have never really thought ...

     This is a letter sent to my Doctor from my Surgeon, has anybody been through the same procedure?. I wonder what you feel my chances of sucess are?.      " Further to my last letter on Mr Hughes, his contrast imaging does confirm he has a very short rectal stump, probably only 8cm in length. He does appear to have a reasonable amount of left colon which, if fully mobilised would reach the...

Hi everyone! Im coming to the point where i need to decide if to stay with the stoma or have a reversal (j.pouch). My story is i caught salmonella and thyphoid fever on holiday which got so bad so i had to have emergency operation leaving me with an ileostomy. With more tests it shows i have ulcerative colitas. Im struggling to decide if to have the reversal or just to keep the bag. Any info/he...

I had a colonostomy 3 years ago. I went in for a reversal the following year but things went wrong. The Dr. said it was like a bag of puss that exploded in me also the niped a small vein and I lost much blood. At the same time I had part of my rectum removed. ( I new this was going to take place ) I would still like to go for the reversal but my Dr. said I would have the erge to go to the bathr...

I HAD A EXTENSIVE OPERATION WHICH REVERSED MY OSTOMY BACK TO A NORMAL BODY FUNCTION. THAT WAS 9 MONTHS AGO AND MY BODY IS LEARNING TO FUNCTION WITHOUT A RETUM. HAS ANYONE HAD A SIMILAR EXPERIENCE?

Going to talk with the surgeon on Monday that did my coloectomy/colostomy, sigmod to the splenic fixture, about the possibility of doing  a reversal.  It has been 10 months now.  My surgeon is kinda old school and does everything open incision.  So I would like to have an idea what questions I should be asking.  I would like to here from others that have had a reversal done. I had an open midli...

Hello!  The time is finally here and I will be heading for my reversal on New Years Eve after almost a year.  Was not supposed to end up with an ostomy but there were complications after the initial surgery.  I had a full removal of my colon from cancer so you know "things" move quickly through my body.  I'm pretty nurvous about what my new "normal" day will be like.  Dpon't think I can take an...

Hi, I had my colostomy reversed July 1,2016.  Other then having an obstruction after, things have been pretty calm health wise until now.  I am now having some pretty weird pain where my stoma was.  Kind of a burning, stinging pain.  At three months out, is this normal?  I would love to hear your reversal story, and to know it will get better....and just how long did it take to get to feeling...

my fellow ostamates, on my blog happy new year a question was asked? But I've have not experienced that , my fellow ostomates is there anyone out there ; that can answer that please, thanks in advance!!! Angelicamarie

OK, I have a colonoscopy coming up in a week (Friday morning). I'm not too worried about it as I will be under MAC sedation (I'm still freaking out a little because hospitals are always a little discerning with me), but I've never had one before  so there's that. Anyway! I have a temporary sigmoid colostomy due to diverticulitis and my colonoscopy will determine the fate of my stoma (I never n...

it is 13 months since I had my colostomy. My GP asked about me getting reversal. The surgeon said they'll discuss the details after I get a colonoscopy. So have people prepped for the colonoscopy and is it hard wiith colostomy and I imagine you have to do both stoma and anus? But not sure? Totally clueless on that! about the reversal, I was told it was major surgery and even bigger than my ori...

hi guys i am new to this as just recently got out of the hospital after over a months stay.  I had a hysterectomy and the surgeon punctured my jejunum.  I had my sigmoid colon removed as it was destroyed while sitting in half a gallon of sepsis.  Also removed was a portion of the jejunum.  Is there anyone out there with experience in a reversal with these pieces missing?  The doctor said I ne...

hello to everyone. Last year, on Easter Sunday I got up early as usual as my golden retriever thought I should, so I came downstairs was feeling sick and threw up in the downstairs sink, strange I thought, dodgy kebab meat from the night before, still felt sick but after a coffee and my usual routine of taking my blood pressure we went out, feeling sick in my stomach I walked and got about a mi...

Looking for positive stories of Iliostomy reversal ( is it called takedown sometimes) because I'm very anxious about it. Had bowel resection due to diverticulitis, with loop Iliostomy. Due for reversal in 13 days. All has gone well, except for some dehydration. All healed up inside now. Had the X-ray test. Any advice very welcome . 

2+ weeks out of reversal surgery;  have frequent movements (20+ daily), painful gas, and no control over movements.  I am looking for  similar experience from others to temper my expectations.  Right now I am unhappy and have a hard time thinking it will ever be better.  Movements are not runny, oatmeal consistancy.  Soft diet first 2 wks, now slowly introducing more foods. Thanks for sharing ...

Hi! I am hoping you guys can share some insights about how likely a reversal might be for me... I was diagnosed with indeterminate colitis in 2005 at age 16. I had relatively no flares between diagnosis and 2015/2016 when I required emergency surgery for a colectomy. I have an ileostomy now (which I hate) and have been hoping to have a reversal done. I’ve been on Entyvio since surgery. I’ve be...

After being diagnosed in March with diverticulitis with a hole in my intestine, I was on antibiotics for several weeks and in April had surgery to remove the damaged portion of my intestines. The doctor used a temporary ileostomy. I am now 8 weeks post surgery and am scheduled to have my ileostomy reversed next week. I guess my biggest concern is how much time I will need off work for this. I h...

I wanted to know if anyone has their gut hurting after operation, not right after but as time went on....It has been 2017 for my operation and still feel things in my gut...everyday it reminds me...maybe I am still healing after all this time....hard to say the time limit on it....anyone care to tell me your experience...I have no idea if this is normal to go on this long.....and feeling like t...