surgery

Denise1966

Hi all,

I had my rectal surgery on the 10th. No sign of malignancy of any kind, and 0 of 24 nodes tested positive! What a blessing.
Now I have a temp. ileostomy and am having a heck of a time dealing with it. Any ideas or suggestions would be great.

Monicaemilia

Hi Denise: I am so happy that everything turned out so well. As for the iliestomy, I have had one for two years and, yes, although it does seem gross at first, you do get used to it. As time goes by you will notice a predictability to your bowel movements so that you are prepared. Just be diligent in changing the pouch and cleaning the stoma. Also ensure that you drink lots of water as it will go a long way in avoiding blockages. Don't hesitate to e-mail me if you have specific questions or just want to vent. Monica

pamysue

Denise,
Congrats on good pathology news! I had my surgery on May 7 and am finally getting comfortable dealing with the ileostomy. I have an "in-y" rather than an "out-y" so it's been quite a pain. The best suggestion I have for you is to do things in your time. Be patient with yourself. You are entitled to whatever mood you are in. One month ahead of you, I'm in a much better place than I was a month ago with the bag.

You may also want to check out the ostomy board at www.healingwell.com I have found so much good advice there from people who have dealt with these things for years.

Good luck. I'm thinking of you.
Pam

4law

Glad to hear the good news. The docs and nurses in the hospital were not very helpful or knowledgable about the fitting and use of the bag. I found the best help with a good visiting osteomy nurse. Every person's body is different and the "fit" is the key. Keep experimenting with different equipment until you find your comfoert level. It will be gone soon. Any add'l chemo planned?

tootsie1

That's wonderful! I'm so glad you had good news!

Gail

lfondots63

Hi,

Congrats on no nodes positive!! I'm sure more will post about the ileostomy. My MIL had one and had problems until she found the right equipment that fit. Good news is it was reversed and she runs circles around me. HUGS.

Lisa F

pamness

I am so happy for you, congratualations. I hope you are enjoying yourself -- hip, hip, horray!!


Pam

Kodie

I had an ilieostomy fo 9 months. I just had my reversal on May 27th. Your stoma shape is important as regards the equipment. My husband is a wound and ostomy nurse so I had wonderful support. A good ostomy nurse for a few visits would be good for you. I experimented with several bags, paste, etc until I found one that worked great. Once I found the right equipment the ostomy became routine. If you have any questions that my husband can answer please feel free to ask. Best of luck, Pearl