This topic is about dealing with medical trauma, PTSD, and anxiety related to the possibility of reversing an ostomy after an emergency Hartmann’s procedure. The person who started the discussion had emergency surgery due to a perforated bowel, which led to serious complications and the creation of an unexpected ostomy. Since then, they have been experiencing severe PTSD-like symptoms and are anxious about meeting a colorectal surgeon to discuss potential reversal options. They are also interested in hearing from others who have managed similar medical-related PTSD and have undergone reversal without a pre-existing gastrointestinal disease.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. Validation and Support
- Many people have gone through similar emergencies and feel intense anxiety when discussing reversal. It's important to know that these feelings are common and you are not alone.

2. Working with Mental-Health Professionals
- Consider seeking help from a psychologist or psychiatrist who has experience with medical trauma. Coordinated care between mental-health and colorectal teams can help reduce triggers.
- Long-term therapy can help differentiate between long-standing PTSD and new medical trauma.

3. Preparing for the Surgical Consultation
- Prepare a list of specific questions for the surgeon, such as how they will prevent previous complications, manage pain, and address known triggers.
- Remember, you can ask for a second opinion or change surgeons if you are not satisfied with the answers. This can help restore a sense of control.
- Consider having an advocate, like a family member or friend, present during the consultation, or on speakerphone if they cannot attend in person.

4. Coping Techniques for PTSD Symptoms
- Techniques like hand-holding or physical grounding during anesthesia induction can be helpful. Some surgeons may agree to stay until the patient is asleep.
- Request warming blankets, adequate sedation, and avoidance of triggering phrases or restraint.
- Medications like Ativan (lorazepam) can be used for acute anxiety when appropriate.

5. Pain and Medication Considerations
- Be aware that some opioids may not be effective for everyone. Discuss alternatives with your doctor.
- Long-term opiate use can cause constipation, so it's important to use laxatives liberally and keep the bowels moving.

6. Sleep and Night-time Security
- Many people with ostomies experience broken sleep due to worry about bag leakage. Planning nighttime emptying routines and using reliable pouching systems can help reduce anxiety.

7. Lifestyle and Recovery Tips
- Engage in creative activities or purposeful tasks to counter depression and provide daily motivation.
- Gentle physical activity can aid overall recovery and bowel function.

8. Legal Experiences
- Some have found that attorneys are reluctant to pursue perforation cases, as courts often view it as a recognized procedural risk. Outcomes depend on expert opinion and documentation.

9. Perspective and Hope
- Survivors emphasize resilience. Despite multiple challenges, quality of life can improve with support, purpose, and time.