This topic is about experiences with hospital "pre-connect" testing, which is often part of the preparation before an ostomy reversal. The original poster described the experience as intense and asked if others had similar experiences. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. One person mentioned that the "pre-connect" might be an anal-sphincter manometry or pressure test. This test checks if the sphincter is strong enough for reconnection. They found it more tolerable than other tests and suggested asking for sedation to make the procedure easier.

2. Several people compared the "pre-connect" to a barium enema, saying the latter is much more unpleasant.

3. A crucial warning about barium enemas: any leftover barium must be completely flushed out of the bowel or emptied via the rectum. If not, it can harden like concrete, potentially causing a serious blockage that might need surgical removal. It's important to get clear post-procedure instructions from the hospital and actively work to clear out the barium.

4. Additional comments noted that barium can be difficult to expel and even hard to clean from the toilet. Many radiology departments now prefer colonoscopy or CT scans, as these are easier to interpret and avoid the complications associated with barium.