Topic Explanation:
The discussion revolves around considering a colostomy for a person who has had an unsuccessful reversal surgery. The individual's wife, after the reversal, experiences frequent and urgent needs to use the restroom, which severely limits their ability to engage in everyday activities such as walking long distances or attending events like movies or theater. They are exploring the option of a colostomy, which could potentially reduce the frequency of bathroom visits to once a day or every other day. The forum seeks advice on the types of colostomy (one with a plug or cap and one with a bag), the operation itself, and the pros and cons of each option.
Advice and Insights from Replies:
1. Research and Community Insights:
- It's crucial to conduct thorough research and seek insights from others who have undergone similar procedures. One participant shared that after reaching out to others through a newsletter, they found that many who had reversals ended up preferring to return to using an ostomy bag due to the challenges post-reversal.
2. Quality of Life Considerations:
- Several participants noted that their quality of life improved significantly when they switched back to using an ostomy bag after an unsuccessful reversal. The constant need to use the restroom can be physically painful and socially limiting, and using an ostomy bag can alleviate these issues.
3. Personal Experiences with Reversal and Ostomy:
- One individual shared their personal journey of having multiple reversals and returning to ostomy each time due to complications and the discomfort of frequent restroom visits. This highlights the potential ongoing challenges and the need for careful consideration of personal health and comfort.
4. Decision Making:
- The decision to undergo another surgery or return to using an ostomy bag is deeply personal and should be made based on individual circumstances and preferences. It's important to consider both the physical and emotional impacts of each option.
See full discusison