This topic is about the potential benefits, risks, and effects after surgery to remove a rectal stump. The discussion revolves around a couple considering this surgery due to inflammation found in a recent examination, although no cancer was detected. They are concerned about the risk of impotence and are seeking advice from others who have undergone similar procedures.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. If surgery is chosen, it will be performed by a colorectal specialist, which is important for the best outcomes.

2. Benefits and reasons for considering removal:
- Long-term disease, recurrent colitis, or polyps, along with high blood vessel density in the area, can increase cancer risk, prompting some surgeons to recommend removal if reversal is not an option.
- Persistent issues like leakage, cramping, or bleeding that cannot be managed with medication might justify surgery.

3. Sexual function outcomes:
- One person who had surgery at 58 reported no change in erectile function, only temporary discomfort from scar tissue.
- Another, who had surgery at 47, experienced progressive erectile dysfunction over time, with little help from medications like Viagra.
- The risk of sexual dysfunction largely depends on the preservation of pelvic nerves, so choosing an experienced colorectal surgeon is crucial.

4. Post-operative issues and recovery:
- Some may experience the formation of a sinus, which can be resolved with a minor outpatient procedure.
- Phantom rectum pain and light mucous discharge might persist even after removal.
- Scar tissue discomfort usually decreases over time.
- Serious healing problems, like a non-healing wound or heavy discharge, are possible but were not experienced by those who shared their stories.
- It is recommended to have the surgery performed by a seasoned specialist at a reputable clinic.

5. Reasons some decide to keep the stump:
- If the stump is symptom-free, some choose to leave it in place despite the theoretical cancer risk, following the idea of "if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it."

6. Medication and product references:
- Belladonna and Opium suppositories were previously used to control cramping and bleeding, but there was a worldwide shortage noted in 1994.
- Viagra (sildenafil) was tried for post-surgical erectile dysfunction with minimal benefit.