The topic is about considering a Hartmann procedure colostomy reversal after 18 months. The person who started the discussion had an emergency Hartmann procedure due to diverticulitis with sepsis and is now exploring the possibility of reversing it. They are seeking advice and experiences from others who have undergone a similar procedure to understand the potential outcomes and concerns.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Share detailed medical history with your surgeon and peers, including the length of your remaining colon, rectal stump, overall health, and any other surgeries you've had.

2. Pre-operative tests that are often recommended include:
- Anal sphincter electromyography (EMG)
- Anorectal manometry
These tests help assess the function of sphincter muscles and nerves before deciding on a reversal.

3. Choose a surgeon who has experience with Hartmann reversals. Have an open discussion about individual risks such as adhesions, incontinence, leaks, and the possibility of needing a re-stoma.

4. Real-world recovery experiences vary:
- Some members have shared detailed recovery diaries that are worth reading.
- Positive recoveries have been reported at different intervals, such as 3 weeks, 6 months, and even 12 years after the procedure, with most returning to normal bowel habits within weeks to months.
- One member had a challenging year-long recovery with multiple hospitalizations but is now healthy and glad they went through with the reversal.

5. Typical colon resections mentioned include losing 12 inches (30 cm) or 18 inches of the colon, with one person losing 40% of their colon. The duration of having a stoma before reversal ranged from 3 to 18 months.

6. The expected hospital stay for uncomplicated laparoscopic or open reversals is typically 3 to 7 days. Early eating and bowel activity are common in smoother cases.

7. For comfort and supplies during the hospital stay and early home recovery, consider:
- Having a nasogastric (NG) tube placed as a precaution to prevent ileus.
- Starting to walk as soon as allowed, using a walker if necessary.
- Bringing baby wipes, barrier cream, and adult briefs to manage early bowel frequency and protect the skin.

8. Be aware of the risk of adhesions, especially if you've had multiple prior abdominal surgeries, as they increase the chance of obstruction. Know the signs and seek prompt care if needed.

9. From a mental perspective, some members initially thought about keeping the stoma because life with a bag had become manageable, but those who chose reversal report no regrets.

10. Conditions that prompted the original Hartmann procedures in the group include diverticulitis with perforation, sepsis, C. diff, volvulus, surgical perforation during sigmoidoscopy, and traumatic colon loss.

For more firsthand details, you can search the forum for posts by members who have shared their experiences with reversals.