This topic is about a surprising situation that occurred during a routine colonoscopy preparation for someone with a colostomy. The person found that their colostomy stoma and colon had suddenly closed, which was unexpected and puzzling for both them and their doctor. Even using a smaller, pediatric scope didn't help in examining the colon for polyps.

Here are some additional details and insights shared by others:

- Four days after the procedure, the stoma reopened on its own without any pain, output issues, or signs of inflammation, stricture, or twisting.
- The person has had their colostomy for 22 years without any previous problems.
- During the preparation, they vomited green fluid, indicating a possible blockage. The doctor noted that the stoma was so tight that even a standard dilation balloon couldn't widen it.
- The doctor mentioned that they had never seen a case like this before.

Some advice and insights from others include:

1. Possible causes for the closure could be transient inflammation, a temporary stricture, or a twisted bowel. Normally, these can be addressed with air or a balloon during a colonoscopy, but that wasn't successful in this case.
2. One person shared a similar experience where their stoma "closed" due to a peristomal hernia or muscular stricture. They found the following measures helpful:
- Gentle digital dilation by applying steady finger pressure for several minutes until the muscles relaxed.
- Using stoma plugs during the day to keep the passage open and help "train" the muscles.
- Employing a custom irrigation system, which involved inserting a tube 8–9 inches past the obstruction and using pressurized water, similar to anal irrigation techniques.
- A word of caution: advanced self-irrigation methods can be risky and may lead to colon rupture. It's important to fully understand the procedure and know when to stop.
3. For future colonoscopies, the person with a known obstruction plans to personally insert the scope or guide the initial access. This is because medical staff might not be familiar with their unique anatomy, which could potentially cause harm.