This topic is about dealing with stenosis or stricture at the stoma site, which is a narrowing that can sometimes require additional surgery. Here are some insights and advice shared by others who have faced similar situations:

1. A CT scan with oral barium can help clearly identify a stricture or stenosis at the stoma site. If surgery is needed, it might be scheduled to correct both the narrowing and any issues with a flat stoma. Such procedures are often considered minor, with the possibility of same-day discharge, although staying overnight is also an option if necessary.

2. Before deciding on surgery, some people try conservative management techniques:
- One method involves gently inserting a dilator or a lubricated finger into the stoma to keep the opening patent. This is held in place until the muscles relax.
- A stoma plug can also be used to temporarily maintain the opening, though the narrowing may return once the plug is removed.
- These techniques can help delay surgery until they are no longer effective.

3. Some individuals have experience managing strictures in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, such as those related to Crohn’s disease. For example, living with an hour-glass stricture in the throat with a very narrow opening can be managed for years without surgery, showing that some strictures can be tolerated or managed non-surgically.