Considering Ileostomy Reversal After Small Bowel Resection

I have had an ileostomy since last april due to a small bowel resection, they took about 2.5

feet from me. I am wandering about a reversal, wandering if they will be able to do it. My

doctor was worried about adhensions. If any one has any suggestions I would love to hear

them...Thank you

Hello Fordlady,



I'm sorry, I have no clue. I'm a permanent colostomate.  I am also sure those who know these answers will come and post as soon as they give it a read!

Hi Ford Lady. I wouldn't worry about the adhesions too much. Each and every surgery results in adhesions (stringy pieces of tissue that stick one surface to another) and every surgeon is well aware of this. Be guided by your surgeon if you have a trusting relationship with him/her and they can always check by keyhole first and have a good look around. It's the least invasive and only leaves a couple, 3 maybe 4, very small surgical cuts (usually 1cm or less) and if the surgeon is concerned, he can a. wait until you wake up and discuss the options b. change to an open procedure if necessary and you gave prior consent c. leave things completely alone if you are comfortable living with a bag.

I hope this has helped to reassure you. I have over 30 years of nursing experience, and the change from being a nurse giving advice to becoming an ostomate really leveled me. It's okay to know the mechanics and tell the patient what to do and what to expect. But it's completely different when you have changed seats and become the patient.

I can now speak from experience and believe me, I have learned more in the last 8 months from reading people's daily troubles and triumphs, but ultimately you must feel 100% sure before you go ahead. It's okay to take longer than your allotted appointment to ask questions and there are no stupid questions. I would suggest you keep a running notepad of things to consider and if you are worried you might need longer, ask the doctor's receptionist to change your consult to a longer consult.

I will keep you in my prayers and I wish you well whatever you decide. After all, our condition doesn't define us, it's who we are that matters. God bless, Lorraine

PS Not that it changes your decision, but I am a permanent ostomate and have made the choice to be content because the option was I would only have been here a very short time if I hadn't had it. Plus, it was a complete surprise because I went in for something different but as Forrest Gump said, life is like a box of chocolates, and life is so beautiful and worth treasuring.

Adhesions have been conquered!  there is a wrap they can use- it works beautifully - I am a living testament and although it is a choice to have the wrap because the tests are still happening -- but what can you lose other than adhesions!  

Good luck...