Stoma revision surgery is a procedure to correct issues with a stoma, such as a retracted stoma, and may involve closing a large abdominal opening. If you're preparing for this surgery, here are some insights and advice that might help you feel more prepared and at ease:
1. **Hospital Stay and Recovery Time**
- Typically, you might stay in the hospital for about 5 to 7 days if everything goes smoothly. However, if the surgery involves more complex procedures, like converting to an open operation or repairing a hernia, it could extend to 11 days or more.
- Full recovery can take several months, so it's important to be patient and not rush the healing process.
2. **Pain Management**
- Many find the pain from revision surgery to be less intense than the initial ostomy surgery, mainly because you have a better idea of what to expect.
- The first day post-surgery can be painful, especially when using your abdominal muscles, but generally, the pain is manageable.
- If a full midline laparotomy is planned, consider requesting an epidural, as it can significantly ease the pain.
- Some people manage without opioids, while others use standard post-op medications effectively.
3. **Surgical Details and Outcomes**
- If the stoma is revised in the same spot, expect the new opening to be larger.
- Surgeons might start with a laparoscopic approach but may switch to an open procedure due to scar tissue.
- The revision might also include additional repairs, such as fixing an early hernia.
4. **Product and Supplies**
- Some people continue using the same stoma appliances after revision. Marking the desired stoma site beforehand can help ensure a good fit.
5. **Choosing the Surgeon**
- It's important to feel confident in your surgeon's experience with ostomy procedures. Pre-operative consultations can help you assess their competence.
6. **Post-Op Issues to Watch**
- Be aware that incisions, especially those for hernia repair, can become infected and might be more painful than the stoma itself.
- Expect to have tubes and drains similar to those from your original surgery.
7. **General Mindset**
- Familiarity with the routine, such as dealing with tubes, drains, and diet progression, can make the experience less daunting.
- Recovery is a gradual process, so aim for a timeline of months rather than weeks to regain full comfort and stamina.
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