illiostomy reversal concerns

johnnybegood
johnnybegood Member Posts: 1,117 Member
edited March 2014 in Colorectal Cancer #1
I am due to have my reversal onFeb.4 after only having it for 5 wks. My doc in not very informative does anybody know how long the recovery time is afrter this procedure,I really need to get back to work if that is even possible.I do alot of lifting on the job and dont even know if i will be able to do that anymore.I so long to be normal again but what i read on our little site what does normal even mean anymore. Thanks for all the support johnnybegood

Comments

  • neon356
    neon356 Member Posts: 137 Member
    #2
    I haven't had a reversal,
    I haven't had a reversal, just a colostomy and two subsequent surgeries to remove adhesions and radiation damage. In every case the surgeon gave me strict orders not to lift anything for several months, and even after that to be very careful. Apparently the radiation changes the tissue in the area and stitches tend to rip out. I worked in a machine shop where I routinely had to lift metal bars weighing 50 to 100 lbs, and was told not to do it. But, like many of us I didn't have much choice if I wanted to keep the job. My boss was pretty nice about it but I still had to lift more than I should have. Luckily I've never gotten a hernia from the overlifting, but I'd sure recommend that you try not to do it. If you must lift heavy stuff at least try to be smart about it, wear good support around your middle to keep your parts in place, etc. etc. Good luck with the reversal and I wish you a speedy recovery. ...Carl
  • tiny one
    tiny one Member Posts: 465 Member
    #3
    I think at least 6 weeks. No lifting anything heavier than 5 pounds for at least 6 to 8 weeks. You may or may not have frequent bowel movements after your reversal. I had my reversal in 07. I had my bag for 10 months. The surgery itself I had no pain from the reversal. I had alot of frequency issues until I started taking lomotil. I also had alot of soreness and pain from this issue. Try to get a good barrier cream or spray, this really helps with the soreness. Sitz baths help also. Wearing pads helps in case of accidents. Some foods you may find that you'll want to avoid. My issues stemmed from receiving radiation. Please be patient and don't get discouraged. Despite all of the pain I would've still had the reversal. Good luck. Also check into a low residue diet, some have had good luck with this.
  • johnnybegood
    johnnybegood Member Posts: 1,117 Member
    #4
    tiny one said:

    I think at least 6 weeks. No lifting anything heavier than 5 pounds for at least 6 to 8 weeks. You may or may not have frequent bowel movements after your reversal. I had my reversal in 07. I had my bag for 10 months. The surgery itself I had no pain from the reversal. I had alot of frequency issues until I started taking lomotil. I also had alot of soreness and pain from this issue. Try to get a good barrier cream or spray, this really helps with the soreness. Sitz baths help also. Wearing pads helps in case of accidents. Some foods you may find that you'll want to avoid. My issues stemmed from receiving radiation. Please be patient and don't get discouraged. Despite all of the pain I would've still had the reversal. Good luck. Also check into a low residue diet, some have had good luck with this.

    thank you so much for the info. it always makes someone feel better when they talk to someone who has been there and done that.i guess that is what this site is for,thanks again and hope you are doing well and God bless. johnnybegood

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