This topic is about someone who has been dealing with a long-term pelvic abscess and is considering surgery to remove it while keeping the rectal stump intact. Here’s a breakdown of the situation and some advice shared by others:

- After three years of dealing with continuous drainage from a pelvic abscess, the person has decided to look into surgical removal.
- A recent visit to the general practitioner did not lead to finding a specialty surgeon beyond the current gastrointestinal (GI) surgeon. A detailed discussion with the GI surgeon is planned for the 26th of the month.
- The planned procedure involves making an abdominal incision to access and remove the abscess. Additionally, a plastic surgeon will make an incision along the right leg, from knee to thigh, to harvest a muscle flap. This flap will be used to fill the space left after the abscess is removed.
- The goal is to limit the surgery to just two incisions, one on the abdomen and one on the leg, to reduce risks and make wound care simpler.
- The rectal stump will remain untouched; only the abscess will be removed.
- There are concerns about previous surgeries that led to wound necrosis, and the person’s diabetes, which can slow healing and increase the risk of infection due to poor blood flow to the skin.
- Living with an ostomy is manageable for the person, but the chronic abscess causes fatigue, lethargy, and pain, which severely impacts their quality of life.
- Despite fears of complications, the person believes the potential benefits of the surgery now outweigh the risks and plans to update the community after the GI appointment.

Advice and insights from others include:

1. Offering strong emotional support and encouragement.
2. Sharing thoughts and prayers, reinforcing that prioritizing quality of life is a valid decision.
3. Urging the person to keep the community informed about the timing and outcomes of the surgery.