This topic is about what to expect in terms of recovery and pain levels after undergoing robotic hernia repair around a colostomy. The person involved is preparing for surgery where multiple bowel loops are protruding through the abdominal wall. The surgeon plans to address this by reducing each loop and reinforcing the area with a sheet of plastic instead of the traditional mesh. However, there is a warning that the hernia might recur. Since the stoma is involved, the colon will be rerouted during the operation.

- A colorectal surgeon was consulted about the possibility of reversing the colostomy and repairing an existing recto-vaginal fistula. The surgeon explained that repairing the fistula would require several operations, and the colostomy would need to remain in place while it healed, with no guarantee that the fistula wouldn’t reopen.

- The hernia surgeon suggested addressing the fistula first and then reversing the stoma, as it would simplify the hernia repair. However, the patient decided against this due to the added risk, cost, time, and pain involved.

- The robotic surgery will involve using two ports on each side of the abdomen. The person is seeking first-hand experiences from others who have undergone similar surgeries to understand what to expect in terms of postoperative pain and recovery time.

Additional information includes:

- The surgical team consists of a dedicated hernia specialist in Greenville, SC, who comes highly recommended.

- The patient has good insurance coverage.

Advice and insights shared include:

- A nurse mentioned that ventral or incisional hernias have about a 50% chance of recurring within a year, regardless of whether mesh is used.

- Many hernias do not necessarily require repair unless they obstruct the bowel, and often the decision to repair is driven by the patient’s motivation.

- Risk factors for hernia recurrence include diabetes, smoking, a waistline greater than 45 inches, high stoma output, and the presence of a recto-vaginal fistula.

- Given the complexity of the situation, the nurse advises carefully weighing the risks and trusting one’s instincts before proceeding with the surgery.