This topic is about the experiences and considerations involved in undergoing an ileostomy reversal, which is a surgical procedure to reconnect the colon after having an ileostomy. The person sharing their story has had an ileostomy for 1.5 years following a serious hospital stay and is now contemplating the surgery to remove it. They are seeking insights from others who have gone through this process, whether it was successful or not, and any complications they faced.

Here are some key points and advice shared by others:

1. The planned procedure is a direct reconnection of the remaining colon, not involving a J-pouch or K-pouch.

2. It is important to review medical records to understand how much of the bowel was removed and if the ileocecal valve is still intact.

3. There is curiosity about whether reversals are only temporary and how common it is to need another ileostomy.

4. The poster shared their current routine for preventing leakage using Coloplast products, which includes cleaning the skin with water, using skin-adhesive pads, and applying a 1-piece Coloplast pouch with additional adhesive barriers.

5. Positive outcomes are possible. Some people have waited about a year for full healing before reconnection and now function as if they never had the issue.

6. The quality of life after reversal is closely linked to how much of the colon remains and whether the ileocecal valve is intact. It's crucial to read the surgical report to know what was removed and what can be reattached.

7. Consider any cancer history and its implications before deciding on the reversal.

8. Reversals can sometimes fail or be short-lived. Some have had successful reversals that lasted several years, while others needed a new ostomy shortly after reversal due to complications.

9. Caution is advised with J-pouch or K-pouch procedures. One person shared a long-term experience with a J-pouch that led to severe issues, eventually reverting to an ileostomy.

10. Practical preparation tips include finding a colorectal surgeon with extensive experience in reversals and evaluating the long-term probability of needing another ostomy against the current quality of life.

11. Success varies widely; some regain near-normal function, while others may experience high frequency, urgency, or later complications.

12. For those interested in appliance information, the poster reports success with the Coloplast system, using skin-adhesive pads and layered semi-circular barriers for effective leak control.