This topic is about what to expect after a surgery where the anus and rectum are removed, and a temporary colostomy is made permanent. This is often necessary due to complications like anal stricture and diversion colitis. Here are some insights and advice for those going through this experience:

1. Healing Time:
- Recovery can vary greatly. Some people heal quickly, being able to sit normally within 4 to 8 weeks and fully heal by 2 to 3 months.
- Others may experience a slower recovery, taking 4 to 6 months, or even up to 1 to 2 years if complications like infections occur.

2. Common Postoperative Issues:
- Sitting may be uncomfortable due to soreness or burning, and it might take several weeks before sitting upright is possible.
- Wound drainage is common and may require daily care with nurse visits and sterile dressings.
- There is a risk of infection or abscess, so maintaining hygiene is crucial. Salt or antiseptic baths can be helpful.
- A "phantom" urge to defecate is normal and usually decreases over time.
- Scar tissue can cause tightness, and women may experience temporary vaginal discomfort during intercourse.
- A small number of patients may experience chronic pain, often related to previous radiation or infections.

3. Pain Relief and Seating Tips:
- Use seating aids like waffle pillows, donut pillows, or down-filled cushions to ease discomfort.
- Cotton pads or sanitary pads can help pad the area and absorb any drainage.
- An electric heating pad can provide relief for long-term tenderness.

4. Hygiene and Wound Care:
- Regular warm salt baths or sitz baths can soothe and promote healing.
- Adding an antiseptic solution like Savlon to bath water can help prevent infection.
- Keep dressings clean and dry, changing them as instructed.
- If the wound is healing from the inside out, expect regular packing and a longer healing time.

5. Activity and Lifestyle During Recovery:
- Gentle walking, often started in the hospital, can aid circulation and bowel function.
- Gradually return to full activity; some people return to part-time work by week 2 or 3, and athletes may resume gym activities by 2 months.
- Temporary weight loss is common; eat what you can to maintain strength, especially if undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.

6. Long-term Outlook and Stoma Management:
- Most people find their permanent colostomy or ileostomy functions well once they adjust.
- Feelings of gas pressure usually indicate the pouch needs emptying.
- Many patients find the surgery a positive trade-off for relief from strictures, cancer, or chronic disease.

7. Products and Systems:
- Savlon antiseptic solution is recommended for bath use.
- The BCIR (Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir) is an option for a continent ileostomy.
- Various seating aids like waffle pillows and donut pillows are suggested, though no specific brands are mentioned.

Experiences can vary widely, but with careful wound care, appropriate seating supports, and patience, most people adapt successfully to life with a permanent stoma.