The topic is about experiencing unusual sensations after an ileostomy reversal, specifically a week after the procedure. The person who shared their experience is recovering well, with minimal pain and good mobility, but is curious about a peculiar "phantom stoma" feeling. This sensation is described as small bubble-like feelings under the closed-stoma incision, reminiscent of the gurgling once felt in the ostomy appliance. They have reached out to their surgeon and are seeking insights from others who might have felt the same.

Here are some helpful insights and advice from others who have experienced similar situations:

1. The surgeon mentioned that some patients do feel these bubble sensations, and if there are no other symptoms, it is usually harmless.

2. These sensations are most noticeable during digestion and are felt internally, not seen.

3. Many people have experienced similar "phantom" or bubble sensations after stoma closure or reversal, and it can be a normal part of the postoperative experience.

4. One explanation is that the feeling might be due to residual CO₂ gas left in the abdomen from laparoscopic surgery, which is gradually absorbed and released as belching or flatulence.

5. The intestines readjusting and the tugging of internal sutures can also create unusual movements or sensations, sometimes mimicking fetal kicks or bubbling.

6. Phantom sensations can persist for some time after any stoma removal, even if there is a second temporary stoma.

7. General advice from others and their surgeons is that if there is no fever, increasing pain, or other concerning symptoms, it is safe to monitor the sensations and mention them at the next medical review.

8. Encouragement is given to continue with the recovery, stay active, be attentive to any new symptoms, and trust that these strange sensations usually fade as healing progresses.