Topic Explanation:
The discussion revolves around seeking feedback and experiences related to loop ileostomy reversal surgery. The original poster is concerned about potential negative outcomes such as constant emergent diarrhea following the surgery and is looking for insights from others who have undergone similar procedures.
Advice and Helpful Insights:
1. Recovery Experiences Vary:
- One individual reported a smooth recovery four weeks post-reversal, with their bowel starting to function after three days. The most frequent bowel movement they experienced was six times in one day, which was manageable and less severe than expected.
2. Surgical Outcomes and Conditions:
- The success of the surgery can depend on the complexity of the procedure and the individual's specific medical condition. For instance, having no hernias or complications can contribute to a smoother recovery.
3. Impact of Remaining Colon:
- The presence or absence of the colon significantly affects the outcome. If the colon is intact or mostly intact, the chances of a successful reversal are higher. Conversely, if the colon is absent and only the ileum is connected to the rectum, there may be more complications such as very frequent elimination, diarrhea, and potential skin irritation around the anus due to the caustic nature of the output.
4. Option to Revert:
- It's important to remember that if the reversal does not meet the patient's expectations or results in significant discomfort, reverting to a stoma is an option.
These insights suggest that while there are risks associated with loop ileostomy reversal surgery, the outcomes can vary widely based on individual circumstances and the specifics of the surgical procedure.
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