In March 2023, I had approx. half my colon removed, (the half that starts at the end of the small intestine) because of a volvulus (twisted colon, not cancer). I was given an ileostomy because a 6 month rest for my colon was supposed to help it heal. I had a successful re-connection in Oct 2023.

After the re-connection, I sometimes soiled myself. I had to be very careful to pass gas only on the toilet, because my colon had forgotten how to tell the difference between gas and stool. This problem slowly righted itself. I also took dextrin to firm up my stool.

Now (June 2025) I mostly have normal but soft bowel movements, 2-3 times a day. Occasionally my colon decides to pass what looks like dark brown water--lots of it. Gastroenterologist says this is caused by the gastrocolic reflex. I cannot identify anything in my daily eating that clearly triggers the reflex.

Despite these problems, I very much prefer re-connection to keeping the ostomy.