Considering Colostomy Reversal After 5 Years: Too Late?

Hello I've had a  colostomy for 5 years which I could of had reversed but have been absolutely terrified to ever have it done, I also have an hernia which is getting so uncomfortable to live with so have been thinking I wish I had the reversal now and, I've come here to ask anybody about a reversal and would it be too late for me after 5 years would they still do it x

Hello jh.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one. The subject has come up a few times before, and there seems to be no right or wrong answers. The only sensible way to find out if a reversal is still possible is to ask the relevant people. I find that this sort of preliminary discussion is easier with the stoma nurses than it is with the surgeons, because the latter seem to be only interested in their little bit of expertise. Whereas the stoma nurses will spend time talking the whole thing through  and help you look at the alternatives before making any final decision. 

The surgeon offered me a reversal, but did not consider that the original reason for my stoma had not diminished and was therefore likely to return. "What sort of reasoning is that?" I asked myself.  It was so much easier to chat informally with the stoma nurses!

Best wishes

Bill  

Hi jh,

 Bill's right, each of us is different, so our opinions here really won't help you.  Surgeons get paid to do surgery........so they tend to be a bit biased.  I'm not saying they'd do unnecessary surgery..........but that whole topic is a slippery slope, as morality tends to be complicated when there's money involved.  Sounds like you have three options........do nothing and live with it as best you can, see if a reversal is possible for your situation..........or inquire about getting the hernia fixed without being reconnected.  I can't say which is best for you, but I will say you should get as many opinions on this from reputable people as you can.  The ostomy nurse is a good start, as Bill said, but I'm not sure that person will risk telling you which option they think is best for you........they'll probably just describe what they know about each.  I'd include a good Gastro or two in your discussions, as your underlying and current condition are very important to the success of whichever option you choose. Best of luck to you!!

regards,

bob 

If your issue is resolved otherwise and you would prefer the reversal then speak to your doctor about it and see if it's available to you. I had mine done last year, I love it.