In this article, we will discuss the procedure of closure of a loop ileostomy. If you have concerns that you are unable to find answers for from this post, you should consult your healthcare professional.
What is the closure of a loop ileostomy?
A loop ileostomy is a type of bowel ostomy created on your small intestine. It is made with two ends of the small bowel. The reason your surgeon gave you a loop ileostomy is that he wanted to make it a temporary bowel diversion, meaning that it ultimately needs to be put back together.
After the reversal procedure, you will be able to move your bowel naturally.
The benefits of a reversal procedure
The top benefit of a reversal procedure is that it allows you to live the way you want. You will not have to worry about the underlying condition that necessitated you to undergo ostomy surgery. You will be able to open your bowels like everyone else. And more importantly, you will not have to wear an ostomy bag the entire time to manage your stool evacuations.
The ileostomy reversal operation
Your surgeon will administer general anesthesia before starting the operation. It may take an hour for the procedure to complete.
During the operation, the surgeon will make an incision on your abdomen around the ileostomy. The purpose of this incision will be to free up the loop formed during surgery to create the ileostomy. The surgeon will then join the two ends of the bowel and place it back inside your abdomen.
Complications
Complications of the reversal procedure can range from mild to severe. Some of these complications may even be life-threatening.
The general complications of any operation include the following.
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Infection on the site of surgery
- Development of a hernia in the scar
- Chest infection
- Scarring of the skin
- Formation of blood clots in your lung
- Formation of blood clots in your leg
- Difficulty urinating
Some specific complications of this surgical procedure may include the following.
- Bowel obstruction
- Anastomotic leak
- Diarrhea
- Bowel paralysis
- Formation of a fistula between your bowel and the skin
How soon you will recover?
After surgery, you may need to remain hospitalized for one to three days. After you move back home, you may need to take complete bed rest for a few days or weeks. It generally takes a few weeks for you to become strong and healthy enough to perform your daily activities. You can also engage in physical activities and recommended exercises to speed up the process of recovery. Nonetheless, it is best to discuss with your healthcare physician before you start exercising.
If you follow up with your doctor regularly and do exactly what they say, you will be able to make a good recovery undoubtedly.
Once you are fully recovered, you will be able to move your bowels naturally. Things will not be the same during the first few days, but you should be able to regain your health over time.
