This topic is about someone who recently had a colectomy, a surgery where most of the colon is removed, but the rectum is left intact. This setup allows for the possibility of a future J-pouch, which is a surgical procedure to create a new way for waste to leave the body after the colon is removed. The person is currently managing well with a temporary ostomy and is considering whether to go for a reversal surgery to create a J-pouch or to continue with the ostomy. They are looking for advice and personal experiences from others who have faced similar decisions.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Look for and read as many personal stories as you can find about "reversal" and "J-pouch" in forums and archives. These firsthand accounts can provide valuable perspectives.

2. Remember that this decision is very personal. If your current ostomy is working well, it might be worth considering keeping it as is. The saying "If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it" can apply here.

3. Success rates for reversals can vary. For example, in one support group, out of five reversals, three were long-term successes, while two had significant ongoing issues and required rehospitalization.

4. Outcomes can change over time. One person had two good years after a reversal, but then experienced three years of severe pain and accidents before deciding on a permanent colostomy.

5. Several factors can influence the success of a J-pouch:
- The health of the remaining rectum.
- The original disease, such as ulcerative colitis versus Crohn’s disease. Crohn’s patients reportedly develop pouchitis in 90% of cases.
- Any radiation damage or surgical scarring that might limit the construction of a pouch.

6. Be aware of potential complications like pouchitis, abscesses, chronic pain, incontinence, frequent bowel movements, and perianal skin irritation.

7. Adjusting physically to a J-pouch or reversal can take time. With a well-functioning ostomy, the main adjustment is often psychological and may become more apparent months later.

8. Choose a surgeon with extensive experience in J-pouch or reversal surgeries, especially one who handles complex cases regularly. It's also wise to get at least one second opinion.

9. Ask detailed questions and stay proactive. There are different pouch configurations, so make sure you understand each option.

10. Post-operative healing can vary greatly. Your immune status can affect recovery, such as the formation of abscesses that might require additional surgery.

11. Support networks, including local ostomy or J-pouch groups, blogs, and chat rooms, can offer real-time experience sharing and support.

12. For residual rectal discomfort, some products that might help include Anusol Cortisone suppositories and Cortafoam (a hydrocortisone foam, though it can be expensive).