Stoma Reversal

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Hi, I was diagnosed with rectal cancer in April 2022 and had chemo radiation, a low anterior resection operation in November last year (which was successful in removing the tumour) and chemotherapy at the beginning of this year. I had a temporary ileostomy when I had my operation in Nov 2022 and was told that it would be reversed within the year. I have now been told that because of the waiting lists, that my reversal has been postponed indefinitely. The stoma is problematic with soreness and raw skin and high output and affects me daily. I am struggling with the fact that my stoma stops me from going about my daily life as it hurts when I do gardening, decorating, walking etc and also my Dad died in September which has lowered my mood even more. I'm struggling a bit and wondered if anyone had any advice and would also be grateful to hear of successful reversals after a wait of more than 18 months.

I know I'm luckier than many and send love to all who are finding it difficult at the moment

Spider56 11 months ago

Hi What The,

I’m sorry to hear you are struggling at the moment. Is your stoma nurse aware of your difficulties? I know when I had initial problems with my stoma a change of pouch type helpped. I also found that a low residue diet and nightly jelly babies and cream crackers regulated output in my case.

I had my temporary ileostomy from November 2021, and was scheduled for a reversal after finishing chemo in September 2021. However due to waiting lists and ‘routine’ priority only had the operation in May 2023 (almost exactly 18 months).

I can say that after six months I consider the opertion a success. The early weeks were a challenge, but I am now used to the new normal of 4-6 bowel movements a day and I am eating and drinking whatever I like. I am doing all the physical activities I was pre-diagnosis and have been on numerous mini breaks in this country and abroad without incident.

I have no regrets about the reversal and a period of 18 months between operations as not had any negative impacts.