This topic is about someone sharing their experience with ileostomy reversal surgery, which is a procedure to reconnect the bowel after having an ostomy. They talk about their time in the hospital, the early stages of recovery, and dealing with pain from an anal fissure. Here are some key points and advice from their journey:

- The surgery took place after two previous cancellations, with the surgeon ensuring an ICU bed was available and clearing their schedule for the procedure. The pre-operation process included an epidural, arterial line, and general anesthesia.

- After the surgery, they spent one day in the ICU before moving to a surgical ward, with a total hospital stay of 13 days, which is typical for this type of surgery.

- The surgical incision involved removing and re-closing an old mid-line scar with 30-40 staples, and closing the former stoma site with 10-12 staples.

- They faced several complications in the hospital, including severe nausea and vomiting, accidental removal of the epidural, high morphine use, a blocked catheter, a leaking rectal drain, intense muscle cramps from fluid loss, weight loss, and facial wasting.

- Bowel function began to return around day 5 or 6, with 15-20 bowel movements per day, requiring a large fluid intake.

- For pain management, they used loperamide to control stool frequency and codeine for pain relief and its constipating effect.

- Upon discharge, their appetite improved, and mobility increased, but they experienced extreme soreness in the anus from frequent wiping, leading to a painful anal fissure. This was treated with a prescription rectal ointment applied twice daily.

- On the first night home, they managed to sleep in their own bed, with bowel movements occurring every 3-4 hours and no accidents. They used kitchen roll dabs and baby wipes to minimize irritation.

- They are currently experiencing significant pain from the fissure and plan to continue updating their progress.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Expect some discomfort and frequent bowel movements after the reversal, but remember that pain and memories usually fade over time. Staying positive and patient is important.

2. To reduce irritation from frequent wiping, consider installing a portable bidet attachment. These can be found online and range from $249 to $500. They spray cool or warm water and air-dry the area, which can minimize pain and promote healing.

3. Use protective skin products like Zinc Oxide Cream, which is an infant diaper-rash ointment, to soothe and protect a raw perianal area. It costs around CA $13 per jar in Ontario.

4. Instead of having large meals, try eating six smaller meals per day to help reduce the frequency of bowel movements, especially after supper.

5. Remember that a strong will, plenty of rest, home-cooked food, and proper hydration can greatly aid in recovery.