Living with a partial rectum after ileostomy surgery can bring up a lot of questions and concerns. This situation often arises when a portion of the rectum is left intact during surgery, with the hope of a possible future reversal. However, sometimes plans change, and a permanent ileostomy becomes the best option. If you're in this situation, you might be wondering what to do about the remaining rectal segment. Here are some insights and advice that might help:

1. Whether to remove the remaining rectum often depends on the original condition:
- If you had ulcerative colitis that later affected the entire colon, some people choose to have the rectum completely removed.
- If the original issue was limited or non-cancerous, doctors might suggest leaving the rectum unless it starts causing problems.

2. Consider the seriousness of major surgery:
- Removing the rectum is a major operation with significant risks, so surgeons usually recommend it only if it's absolutely necessary.

3. Be aware of cancer risks:
- Keeping the rectum does come with a small risk of cancer, so regular endoscopic checks are advised. Some people have kept their rectum for many years, having annual scopes to monitor for any issues.

4. Watch for possible late complications:
- Over time, infections and pain can develop in the remaining rectal stump, which might eventually require removal.

5. It's important to follow your doctor's advice and keep up with regular check-ups to catch any changes early.