This topic is about understanding what happens to the mucus that used to be produced in the rectum after someone has had a complete proctectomy and now has a permanent ostomy. The person asking the question had their rectum and anus removed to avoid issues with a "mucous plug" and is curious about what happens to that mucus now.

Here are some helpful insights:

1. A "mucous plug" is not a foreign object but rather a collection of naturally-produced mucus that can build up in the rectum when stool no longer passes through. If it hardens, it might need to be removed using enemas or suppositories.

2. The colon, rectum, and anus are lined with a mucous membrane that normally secretes mucus to help stool pass smoothly.

- If any part of the lower bowel remains, such as a rectal stump, the tissue will continue to secrete mucus even though stool no longer passes through. This can lead to leakage or a painful buildup of mucus.

- If the rectum and anus are completely removed, which is known as a complete proctectomy, there is no tissue left below the stoma to secrete mucus. This means a mucous plug cannot form, and there is nothing that needs to be absorbed or expelled.

3. People who previously had a rectal stump often reported feeling painful pressure from mucus, which was only relieved by enemas. After having the entire colon, rectum, and anus removed, they no longer experience these plugs.

4. If there is any uncertainty about the changes in your body after surgery or if you have any symptoms that are concerning, it is a good idea to reach out to your surgeon for clarification.