Topic Explanation:
The discussion revolves around the reasons why someone might choose to have a permanent ileostomy instead of keeping a temporary one. The original poster is curious about the necessity of undergoing surgery to make an ileostomy permanent, especially when they are not experiencing issues with their temporary ostomy and are apprehensive about further surgeries.

Advice and Insights:

1. The decision between a temporary and permanent ileostomy often depends on the underlying medical condition. For example, a permanent ileostomy might be necessary if a j-pouch fails or if there are complications from diseases like ulcerative colitis.

2. A temporary ostomy is designed to be reversible, whereas a permanent ostomy is not. The choice is often influenced by the patient's medical situation and the doctor's recommendations.

3. Doctors typically guide the decision-making process. A permanent ileostomy might be necessary if there is no viable bowel left to reattach or if the remaining bowel needs to be secured for medical reasons.

4. In cases of colorectal cancer, a temporary ileostomy might be used to manage blockages, aid in radiation therapy, or allow surgical sites to heal. Some patients might choose to keep the ostomy bag if it improves their quality of life.

5. For those with bowel diseases, a permanent ileostomy might be the goal to remove the diseased organ entirely.

6. Some patients prefer not to undergo reversal due to potential side effects and incontinence issues, opting to maintain control with their current setup.

7. If a loop ileostomy is present, making it permanent might involve closing the loop. This decision should be discussed with a surgeon to understand the specific procedures and their pros and cons.

8. Personal experiences vary, with some opting for a permanent ileostomy due to severe illness or complications from conditions like ulcerative colitis, where the ostomy provides a better quality of life despite the challenges.