This topic is about someone who has a loop ileostomy and is getting ready for a reversal surgery. They experienced a sudden, painful bulge near their stoma after sneezing, which led to confusion and concern about whether it might be a peristomal hernia. Despite several medical tests showing no hernia, a surgeon casually suggested it might be one, leaving the person feeling uncertain and worried. They are seeking advice on whether the hernia can be fixed during the reversal surgery.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. A stoma is essentially a type of hernia because creating an opening in the abdominal wall weakens that area. This makes peristomal hernias quite common.

2. It's surprising that multiple imaging tests didn't show a hernia. It's a good idea to get complete copies of all test reports and read them yourself. You can look up any medical terms you don't understand online.

3. A CT scan is often the easiest, most sensitive, and least invasive way to identify a parastomal hernia. You might want to consider asking for one.

4. If you feel your current surgeon is not taking your concerns seriously, it could be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another colorectal surgeon. They should thoroughly review your medical history, images, and pain before proceeding with any reversal.

5. Many people live with parastomal hernias that don't cause symptoms, and repairs are usually done during stoma reversal. However, if you're experiencing persistent pain, it's important to have it evaluated promptly, and it might be possible to repair the hernia during the reversal surgery.