I also had frequent bout's that "episodes" were getting closer and closer together. I stayed on so many med's for every episode. My Dr's told me the same. (proof from colonoscopy, CTscan and MRI)
I decided after my last bout during Thanksgiving being alone in pain that I was done living like this.
I decided to schedule my surgery after the cold/flu season. (hate hospitals) I also wanted to be in the best health.
I was scheduled for robotic. But, they had to end up cutting me from belly button down. DUE to so many years and episodes the scar tissue and damage was severe.
I had 12" removed.
The day after surgery they want you up and moving and eating. Getting up did not scare me but eating! The first thing I did that morning was had them remove the Ketamine. By the afternoon they took my alarm off, and I could walk the halls and get up without help.
I had lunch and some dinner and felt fine.
You will be running to the bathroom a lot and there will be blood. It will be scary to see.
I was able to leave the hospital after my 2nd night. (that morning the nurse stood around while I took a shower)
When I got home I had the schedule of med's to take for the first week.
My husband had a spreadsheet and med's lined up for times and check off.
I stayed on low fiber that week. I got up (it helped keeping my bed in zero G and not trying to sleep on side) every couple of hours and WALKED! I also drank ALOT!
This will be the most important for you to do. EAT Drink and walk.
The most post op side effects are mental for me. When you live in fear of the "episode" and eating for so long the anxiety and fear is still with me a year later. Weird I have not had any episodes but, still have the fear.
I am very glad I had the surgery and glad I did not wait any longer.
Of course, you still need to have proper diet and exercise. You will feel full fast. Keep to small portions.
It is so nice to have normal BM's in the AM and not worry the rest of the day. (but this will take a 4-6 of mths) At first you will go a lot and all day. Get good pads for just in case of accidents. (you may not realize it)
I also, used this site for help and guidance (before and after) and it is awesome.
Make sure you understand everyone is different health wise.
I had the surgery on my 60th B-day. (no other health issues)