The topic at hand is about deciding whether to undergo reversal surgery after having a sigmoid colectomy, which has resulted in living with a Hartmann-type colostomy. The person is weighing the pros and cons of going through with the reversal surgery and is seeking advice from others who have faced a similar decision.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Reasons some people decided against reversal:
- They had pre-existing bowel issues that might continue even after the surgery, potentially leading to the same or worse symptoms.
- They had undergone multiple abdominal surgeries, and their surgeon advised against reopening the area.
- There was a fear of experiencing chronic diarrhea or losing bowel control. For some, managing liquid output in a pouch seemed easier than dealing with potential accidents after reversal.
- Although daily stoma care can be tedious, having a supportive partner and an online community can make it more manageable.

2. Positive experiences from those who had a Hartmann’s colostomy reversal:
- The hospital stay was typically 2 to 3 days, with no need for a nasogastric tube, and the post-operative pain was noticeably less than the original Hartmann procedure.
- Bowel habits returned to normal within days, allowing a return to a regular diet.
- One person reported that the surgery went smoothly, with only 1½ days of severe nausea, and felt it was "worth it" for the regained confidence and quality of life.
- Weight gain is common after the reversal due to the lifting of food restrictions, but it is manageable with diet and activity. This is often seen as a small trade-off for feeling healthy.
- Partners often appreciate the improved health of their loved ones and do not mind any body changes.

3. Experience with additional reversal (ileostomy):
- The ileostomy was removed on a Friday, and the person was discharged by Monday. The wound required careful cleaning and protection from irritation caused by trouser waistbands.
- There was no longer a need for emergency supplies or concerns about odor, making life "a lot easier."

4. General tips and considerations:
- The decision is highly personal and involves weighing the surgical risks against the current burdens of stoma management.
- It can be helpful to browse earlier forum threads for more detailed stories and to compare similar cases.
- Having a supportive partner or community can ease the journey, regardless of the path chosen.