Hi Shieldsman,

Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. My name is Carole and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

I see from your profile that you’ve joined our online bowel cancer forum and have been talking to other members. I hope you’ll find it a good source of support.

Being prepared for surgery and knowing what to expect can make you feel more in control of the situation.

Before surgery, you’ll be able to meet the surgeon and discuss what is planned for you.

There are different ways to carry out a sub total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis, and how the surgery is done, can affect recovery.

They will be able to say how the operation is likely to be carried out, and how long they expect your recovery to take.

It’s only natural to want to know how long recovery is likely to take, but your specialist team really are best placed to say. This is because they have access to your medical notes.

Bowel Cancer UK have produced this booklet which contains general information about surgery and recovery. It explains how surgery might be done and make suggestions about questions to ask your specialist team.

I hope this has been helpful and wish you a smooth recovery.

Sending best wishes,

Carole

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.  

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