Loop Ileostomy Reversal Surgery - Seeking Feedback

In a few months, I'm due to undergo a loop illeostomy reversal surgery.

I've not heard good results. 

Constant emergent diarrhea.  

Worried about this and would love to hear from people who had similar reversals. 

Thanks!

Hi Stephaine

I'm 4 weeks post my ileostomy reversal today and so far it's been a really smooth recovery. I was really worried about what the recovery would be like after all the stories of accidents and horrible diarrhea, but that's not been my experience.

My bowel started working after 3 days and I had 1 day where I went 6 times, but that's been the most so far. I had stocked up on all the wipes etc., but have not needed to use them.

I appreciate this isn't everyone's experience, but it has been mine. My surgery was straightforward, less than an hour, and I had no hernias or anything to complicate things, so I feel that must have helped.

Best of luck with your reversal and remember we all have different journeys; hopefully, yours will be smooth sailing.

Lori

G-Day Stephanie, I hope all goes well for you and yes, there can be some issues, but there are also a lot of people for whom it works perfectly. But always remember, if you're not happy, you can always go back to your stoma. Keep in touch. Regards, IGGIE

Hi Stephanie,  The simple answer is that if you still have your colon, or most of it, you have a better chance of a good outcome.  If you have no colon, and they are planning on just hooking your ileum up to your rectum, there is more likelihood of problems with reversal.   Very frequent elimination and diarrhea, but also due to the caustic nature of output from your ileum, the skin around anus can become irritated and raw, with little to no chance to heal, from constant elimination.  This may not be the case for everyone, but it is something to be aware of.  I have an ileostomy (loop) with no colon, and was told I could have a reversal.  After doing the research, I decided not to.

Terry

Thanks so much Lori!

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Thanks so much Iggy!

Thanks Terry. They removed the lower part only. I appreciate the feedback!