Colostomy Reversal

During your colostomy reversal, an incision will be made around your stoma (the opening in your abdomen that has been used for waste removal), allowing your surgeon to access the inside of your abdomen and reattach the sections of your colon with dissolvable stitches or staples. Then the stoma is closed with stitches. 

A procedure that involves a smaller incision and a less invasive technique, shortening recovery time.

Colostomy reversal surgery is performed when the problem that required your colostomy is resolved and you are healthy enough to have another surgery. You’ll also have to have a healthy enough colon and rectum to support normal bowel function.

Some of the possible side effects and complications of colostomy reversal surgery include infection, loose stool, incontinence, sudden bowel urges, pain, hernia, trouble with urination and sexual activity, and blockage and scar tissue in the bowel.

The alternative to colostomy reversal surgery is continuing to live with your colostomy.

You don’t need a referral to see a surgeon about colostomy reversal surgery.

You can always get a second or third opinion, but it isn’t required.

Your health history will be compiled and available to the team before, during, and after surgery. If you’re a Hancock Health patient, we will be able to access your records within our system. If you aren’t, we will work with your doctors to get the necessary information.

Your surgical team will evaluate the situation and help you make a choice that’s right for you and your health.

Consult the price transparency tool at HancockRegionalHospital.org for an idea of how much a colostomy reversal surgery might cost.

Medicare parts A and B will cover the cost of colostomy reversal surgery, but it’s important for your doctor to indicate that the surgery is medically necessary.

Follow the directions your care team gives you to prepare your bowels for surgery. You might be asked to drink only clear liquids and eat no solid foods before your surgery.

You’ll arrive several hours before your surgery and be escorted to the preoperative waiting area.You’ll remove all of your clothing and jewelry and put on a hospital gown. (Your valuables will be placed in a secure area or may be given to a family member.) You’ll sign any necessary paperwork, and a preoperative nurse will take your vital signs, review your medications, and answer any questions.You’ll meet your anesthesiologist and the members of your surgery team. An I.V. (intravenous line) will be placed in your hand or arm so medication, including anesthesia, can be administered.When it’s time for your surgery, you will be wheeled into the operating suite.

In addition to the surgeon, you have an anesthesiologist, nurses—some of whom specialize in working with patients and others assist the surgeon—and support staff, who get you checked in and out, compile your records, and more. They all work together, performing their individual jobs, so the procedure is as successful as possible. 

You will likely stay in the hospital for a few days after your colostomy reversal surgery, so it’s a good idea to be prepared. Bring anything you’ll need, including a change of underwear, a sweatshirt, robe, glasses or contacts, headphones, and your medications.

You will be anesthetized during the procedure. An incision will be made around your stoma (the opening in your abdomen that has been used for waste removal), allowing your surgeon to access the inside of your abdomen and reattach the sections of your colon. Then the stoma will be closed.

Colostomy reversal surgery takes one to two hours.

While the length of a hospital stay depends on each patient’s individual needs, patients are typically discharged in 3 to 10 days.

After the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery room where you will stay until you’re ready to be moved to your hospital room.

You’ll be able to talk to your surgeon immediately after your procedure, while you’re in the recovery room.

Most colostomy reversal surgery patients receive pain medication immediately following surgery.

Your doctor may prescribe pain medication to ease any discomfort associated with the procedure.

Make sure you have the appropriate groceries for when you arrive home from the colostomy reversal surgery. Your care team will likely recommend a specific diet of low-fiber foods that are easy to chew and swallow. If you live alone, you may want to arrange for a friend or family member to check in with you.

Our associates will help you arrange the postoperative care you’ll need.

Stitches from a colostomy reversal surgery typically dissolve on their own. You will likely have a scar from the procedure, as well as a scar where your stoma was located. The size of your scars will depend on the type of procedures you had.

If you have an emergency following your procedure, call your surgeon’s office. If you’re in need of immediate emergency services, go to the nearest emergency room.