71 year old waiting for ileostomy reversal

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Colorino
Posts: 1
Joined: Sun Nov 18, 2018 1:04 pm
Facebook Username: Joanne Brooking

71 year old waiting for ileostomy reversal

Postby Colorino » Sun Nov 18, 2018 1:12 pm

Kind of nervous about upcoming surgery, my bag and I have been getting along okay. Surgeon says I will be happier with reversal. Am I too old for this? I know everyone’s recovery is different...worried about incontinence. Thanks

Lee
Posts: 6207
Joined: Sun Apr 16, 2006 4:09 pm

Re: 71 year old waiting for ileostomy reversal

Postby Lee » Mon Nov 19, 2018 7:43 pm

Hi and welcome,

I went with a bag from the start. Radiation destroyed 2/3 of my rectal muscles, thus I was tied to toilet anytime I ate, 20+ BM daily. My bag gave me my life back. So I don't have any experience with reversals.

From what I've read here, yes the first few months can be a challenge. Hopefully others who have already walked in your shoes will chime in shortly. The one thing I will tell you, people who had problems with frequent daily BM have found GREAT success with daily enemas. They got there life back. From what I understand, surgeons want you to wait a few months before going down that path. Just know that it is a back up plan.

Again welcome, you will find a wealth of information and support here.

Lee
rectal cancer - April 2004
46 yrs old at diagnoses
stage III C - 6/13 lymph positive
radiation - 6 weeks
surgery - August 2004/hernia repair 2014
permanent colostomy
chemo - FOLFOX
NED - 16 years and counting!


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