Could I Be a Candidate for Colostomy Reversal?

I had my first colonoscopy Friday after  my  colostomy surgery a year ago. My GI doctor was very pleased at how everything has healed and how healthy my colon looked. He asked if I had thought about a reversal.  When I told him I was not aware I was a candidate he was confused.  I have enough colon remaining and everything looks so healthy after having the deceased portion removed.   To be honest, I did not expect to hear this.  I thought I was not a candidate. I am meeting with my surgeon in a few weeks and I am very confused.  I am at peace with having a colostomy,  have been. But having a reversal was not a thought I've had because I didn't think I'd qualify. My GI doctor gave me the green light if it's something I want to pursue. 

Lost in thoughts for sure. Not sure what to do. 

Just wanted to share my thoughts.  Feeling all kinds of feels.

Really? I am also under the impression that a colostomy is permanent. I was told before my surgery that if the ostomy was temporary I'd get a loop ileostomy and if permanent I'd get a colostomy.  

Our situations are probably different but I'd be interested to know how this ends for you. 

FWIW, I'm not at all sure I'd reverse my colostomy even if I could. I know some people have complications from reversal and some have chosen to keep ileostomies rather than risk a reversal. I've been a little grateful to have the permanent colostomy because I think it is easier to live with than an ileostomy.  

Not telling you what to do at all. I'd certainly consider it and in the end the choice needs to fit you. 

Whoa! This is big news kiddo. 

Knowing the pros and cons of reversal could put you in the right mind set. 

U still have RA issues though, right?  

Due to IBD...If I had the option of reversal, and now know what I do now from experienced  peeps here... my response would be no. That's me. 

It's a big weight on yur shoulders ..give it good thought abt it. And let's us know yur decision. 

It's bittersweet.  I'm sure. 

Yes, big thoughts for sure.  I will say that because of this site, I do know what questions to ask which is a huge plus. 

My RA is a concern for sure. Especially with healing, and surgery in general. Which, come to think of it, depending on how the conversation goes with the surgeon in a few weeks, I will definitely want to discuss with my RA doc.

 

Bittersweet is a good word.  Part of me is excited at the thought of having my colostomy reversed, but truthfully it was not an option in my mind so I've not really entertained the thought. 

I have my new "normal" and I am doing well. But if I don't at least hear my options I know I will regret it. 

I can understand why you would not go through a surgery if given the choice.  Others here have said the same, myself included. 

Arghhh a million thoughts at once. 

 

Thanks for sharing, Nini. I'm sure your mind is racing with all the pros and cons. Take your time to make such an important decision. You, as you stated, have gained knowledge here to be able to ask the right questions. Good luck.

Words of Encouragement from Ostomy Advocates I Hollister

I had two colon resections and a colostomy, which was reversed about 3 months ago. My first resection was to address acute diverticulitis, the second to address the blockage caused by the scar tissue from the first... That's the one that got me a colostomy.

When talking with my surgeon after my colonoscopy, he told me I had "plenty of colon remaining."

I've been without my bag for just over three months and I don't miss it even slightly.