The topic at hand is about the concerns and experiences related to loop ileostomy reversal surgery, particularly focusing on the potential for post-surgery diarrhea and other outcomes. If you're considering or preparing for this procedure, here are some insights and advice based on others' experiences:
- A positive recovery is possible. For instance, one person shared that four weeks after their reversal, they experienced a smooth recovery. Their bowel function returned by the third day, they only had one day with six bowel movements, and they had no accidents. Their surgery was under an hour, and they did not face any hernia complications.
- It's important to remember that individual outcomes can vary widely. While many patients have successful recoveries, results can differ from person to person.
- If you find yourself dissatisfied with the reversal, it is generally possible to return to having a stoma.
- The prognosis after reversal heavily depends on how much of the colon remains.
- If most of the colon is retained, there tends to be better control and fewer issues.
- If the ileum is connected directly to the rectum because no colon remains, there is a higher risk of frequent, caustic output, persistent diarrhea, and severe perianal skin irritation.
- Thorough research is crucial before making a decision. Some patients opt to keep their ileostomy if they feel the risks of reversal outweigh the potential benefits.
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