Here is an update for anyone following my progress. Operation 15th November 2011.
The Hartmans reversal, with mesh for repair of incisional hernia, went well, until my tummy got bigger and bigger and eventually split open, spilling 3 pins of exudate. On the 12th December, 2 days in hospital with IV antibiotics and then home on oral antibiotics and a stoma bag on the wound. Exudate output was quite high to start with at around 200ml a day. The wound loosely packed with Aquacell and a daily nurse visit. The antibiotics finished Sunday and the output was measured yesterday at 83ml.
This is all good news as my body has stopped being so irritated by the mesh. When it gets to 50ml a day, I can have the wound packed and the bag taken off.
The results came back negative for infection, so the promise of having another operation to remove the mesh and replace it with pig skin now looks unlikely. Just have to concentrate on getting well and keeping the wound infection-free now the antibiotics have gone.
In terms of the reversal, it has taken a while to get muscle tone back but I can now hold on to a poo for a good hour and feel in control in that area.
Had my first night out in 6 weeks on Friday and did not feel too bad. I am looking forward to the future and I am grateful for my stoma and the life chances it has brought me.
I know my posts have been graphic and a bit gruesome in places, but look how it has ended. Happy me and feeling positive.
Love to all and happy new year.
x
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Hollister
Ostomy surgery is stressful both for the patient and the caregiver, and creates a major life change for both people in a relationship.
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Learn how to care for your loved one, while still taking care of yourself.
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Hollister
We sat down with two influential people in the ostomy community, to find out how they cope during challenging times.
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