Colostomy Reversal

The goal of the Colostomy Reversal procedure is to restore the function of your intestine and rectum. Reversing your colostomy is a big decision which requires plenty of consideration, both on yours and on your doctor's side. You should also get as much information as possible from ostomy communities, ET nurses and fellow ostomates. The surgery itself is very similar to the initial surgery when you got your colostomy. You will probably take less time to heal.

Before the colostomy reversal surgery you will be given some medicine to help you flush your bowels. The surgery is performed under a general anesthesia, so by the time you wake up, you will be all hooked up, the way you were before your colostomy.

After the reversal you may experience bleeding during bowel movements and less than normal frequency in urinating. You may also feel like not eating for a while.

Questions? Ask the members of our site in the ostomy forum.