This topic is about someone considering an ileostomy reversal after living with a stoma for five years due to Crohn’s disease and past Clostridioides difficile infections. They are seeking advice and experiences from others who have faced a similar decision. Here are some key points and considerations:

- The individual has been told by their surgeon that they are a good candidate for reversal, which would involve connecting the small intestine to the remaining sigmoid colon.
- They are concerned about the risks involved, as the stoma has been challenging at times, but the outcomes of a reversal are uncertain.
- Only 10 inches of the sigmoid colon remain, and the current ileostomy output is quite high.
- The surgeon estimates that after reversal, they might have 6–7 bowel movements per day, which is fewer than the current frequency of emptying the ostomy bag.
- Crohn’s disease is currently under control with biologic therapy, but there are no guarantees for the future.

Advice and insights for making this decision include:

1. If the stoma is being managed well, keeping it might be a valid choice. The quality of life with a functioning stoma could outweigh the risks of reversal after such a long time.
2. Important factors to consider before deciding include:
- The length of the remaining colon, as only 10 inches of sigmoid may limit the colon's ability to act as a reservoir.
- Whether having 6–7 bowel movements per day is acceptable.
- The current stability of Crohn’s disease and the potential for future flare-ups.
3. It is crucial to gather as much information as possible and weigh personal comfort with current stoma issues against the potential but uncertain benefits of reversal.