colectomy - Bowel Disorders Message Board

Lyn_61 · 08-16-2002, 10:14 PM

I am having a colectomy & ileorectal anastomosis. My understanding is that the colon is removed and the small intestine is then attached to the rectum. Has anyone had any experience with this surgery. I'm worried that I will have leakage, diarrhea or wind up in Depends. Need some feedback desperately. Thanks

auntjudyg · 08-17-2002, 12:44 PM

I've only had a resection of the large intestine. A friend's son had extensive surgeries on both intestines and ended up with only a small section of the small intestine, though it was done little by little over several surgeries. But from those experiences I can say that your output will be more liquidy for a while (like, a couple of weeks) and then the body will adjust to reabsorbing the water through a shorter intestine and things return to normal.

You may have Depends for a little while, but the body is incredibly adaptable. My thoughts are with you that your upcoming surgery goes well!

Lyn_61 · 08-19-2002, 06:57 PM

Is there no one out there that has had a colectomy? I really need some info, advice and encourgement.

Thanks, Lyn

auntjudyg · 08-20-2002, 07:13 AM

Lyn, We are not allowed to post links, but there is a good site for ostomates that would turn up in a search. They might be able to answer questions there.

OSXmallard · 08-20-2002, 09:19 AM

Lyn, do a search for "Shaz Ostomy" on google. There is a wealth of information on J Pouch surgery that you can find as well as a ton of people that have had the surgery. Best of luck to you!
- paul.