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Mar 14, 2024

Day 2 Post-Op Reversal - Healing Progress and Experiences

This topic is about the experiences and recovery process of someone who is two days post-operation from a laparoscopic colostomy reversal. Here are some key points and advice shared by the person:

- The surgeon has cleared them for discharge because they are already passing stool and gas, which is a positive sign.
- The first bowel movement had a lot of blood, but the surgeon and nurse confirmed that this level of bleeding can be normal.
- Pain is being managed with regular-strength Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Motrin (ibuprofen). Although they have an oxycodone prescription, they hope not to use it.
- Compared to the original open colostomy surgery, the pain is noticeably less.
- There is excess skin where the peristomal hernia was, and the stoma site looks "gory" and is stapled. The staples are scheduled to be removed next week, and some drainage is expected.
- So far, there have been no accidents with continence, but adult diapers are worn at night for security. They feel that bowel control is intact.
- An abdominal binder is worn during the day and removed when lying down to allow the incision to dry.
- The diet is restricted to low fiber for two weeks.
- They describe sensations of abdominal soreness, a feeling of intestines shifting when standing, painful peristalsis, loud gurgling, and minimal appetite.
- Overall, the recovery seems easier than the first surgery.

Additional questions and information include:

- They are trying to avoid using oxycodone completely, relying only on Tylenol and Motrin.
- Air movement in the abdomen is painful, described as similar to a Coke bottle tipping over.
- They are not lifting anything due to a previous hernia and are curious if closing the stoma site affects future hernia risk.
- They feel a small "knot" under one incision and plan to ask the surgeon about it at the next visit.
- They are looking for thinner, more comfortable binders and have seen options on Amazon.

Advice and insights shared include:

1. Passing gas and stool early on is an excellent sign, and intestinal noises and gurgling are normal.
2. For pain control, continue with Tylenol and ibuprofen if they are adequate, and reserve oxycodone for breakthrough pain only.
3. For activity:
- Rest, take short walks, and stay well-hydrated to aid recovery.
- Avoid lifting and straining, as well as coughing or vomiting, to prevent an incisional hernia.
4. For hernia prevention and management:
- Wear an abdominal binder or hernia belt. Thinner versions can be found on Amazon if the standard ones are uncomfortable.
- A palpable "knot" at an incision is often normal scar tissue, but it should be confirmed with the surgeon.
- Multiple surgeries or persistent coughing can increase hernia risk, so monitor and discuss repair timing with the surgical team.
5. Staples at the former stoma site generally close quickly, with many patients reporting the opening sealing by 6-8 weeks.
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