This topic is about an unexpected experience shared by someone who has had an ileostomy for 27 years. They recently passed a small, solid stool rectally, which was surprising since they haven't done so since their surgery. Here's what they learned and some advice that might be helpful:

- If you still have a section of your colon, known as an "anal/rectal stump," it's possible for mucus and residue to build up there. Occasionally, this can form a stool-like material that gets expelled naturally. This is generally normal and not a cause for concern if you feel fine otherwise.

- Others have had similar experiences. One person mentioned passing foul-smelling solid lumps initially, which later became a clear, non-smelling discharge. They found that irrigating the anal stump and using an incontinence pad helped manage any leakage and odor.

- If you notice that the discharge is frequent, painful, has a bad smell, or comes with other symptoms, it might be a good idea to see a doctor. This can help rule out any complications, such as the formation of a fistula.

- For those who have had their rectum and anus completely removed and permanently closed, this issue won't occur.