Preparing for upcoming colostomy surgery-any clues on what to expect?

Posted by wifeworry @wifeworry, Jun 4, 2023

Hello - We are preparing for upcoming colostomy surgery. Anyone willing to share their recent experiences? We really don't know what to expect: recovery time, training, follow-up visits, return to work etc. Hospital is 6 hours away, so also trying to figure out how long to plan to stay. Thank You!

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ams | @ams | Jul 4, 2023

In reply to @katertucker "I will need to fly home after surgery. How long do you think that they will..." + (show)

I would say it depends on your overall health before surgery. I had my surgery on the 26th of May and flew home on the 8th of June. That involved a 2 day plane ride as we were in the Azores when I had to have emergency surgery. You will be very tired and weak. Be sure to use the wheelchair assistance at the airports.
Listen to your body and don't push yourself. My husband has done most of the cooking for me.
Praying for your recovery. Annie

katertucker | @katertucker | Jul 5, 2023

In reply to @ams "I would say it depends on your overall health before surgery. I had my surgery on..." + (show)

Emergency surgery while on vacation....how awful and scary. Good to know I don't need to stay for weeks after I get out of the hospital but I do plan at least a few days at a hotel first.
My husband has MS so I am well aware I will need all the airline assistance and sadly will need it for my initial consultation trio because prednisone has just destroyed me.

Hugs

ams | @ams | Jul 6, 2023

In reply to @katertucker "Emergency surgery while on vacation....how awful and scary. Good to know I don't need to stay..." + (show)

I forgot to mention that I have done reading on the Internet (Utube) and other websites about your future with a colostomy. There is a lot of information out there. I am still getting used to mine and haven't even found the right bags that I feel comfortable using. You should look into whether there is a local chapter of Ostomy users in your area. I plan on going to a meeting as soon as I feel strong enough.

katertucker | @katertucker | Jul 6, 2023

In reply to @ams "I forgot to mention that I have done reading on the Internet (Utube) and other websites..." + (show)

I just heard from my local chapter yesterday actually. They have not restarted since covid but are going to send me the newsletters and the lady is happy to talk to me. I want to be as prepared as I can be.

kenc | @kenc | Jul 7, 2023

Some of the questions, such as how long before you can leave the hospital and travel should be discussed w/ the surgeon. You also need to get comfortable with draining and/or changing your pouch. I always keep extra supplies w/ me.

morironman | @morironman | Jul 9, 2023

In reply to @katertucker "I will need to fly home after surgery. How long do you think that they will..." + (show)

Me also, that scenario would help me also if anyone has done it. ..

katertucker | @katertucker | Jul 10, 2023

In reply to @morironman "Me also, that scenario would help me also if anyone has done it. .." + (show)

I should find the answer the first week of August and will post.
I am hoping my insurance pays for at least 4 days in a hotel after discharge. Usually when hospitalized I get a few extra days more than most as I have no help at home and need to care for my husband who has MS.

rioa21 | @rioa21 | Jul 21, 2023

In reply to @jtags "Thank you. Which campus are you going to? I’m going to Jacksonville My initial appointments at..." + (show)

I am waiting for a call from Mayo in Jacksonville to get an appointment to see a surgeon. It will be a second opinion. Are you happy with your surgeon? Would you recommend him or her? If so can you tell me the name? I am going to need a colostomy and possibly APR surgery.

rioa21 | @rioa21 | Aug 11, 2023

In reply to @jtags "Thank you. Which campus are you going to? I’m going to Jacksonville My initial appointments at..." + (show)

I too am having my surgery at the Jacksonville campus. I’ve met with a wonderful colorectal surgeon there and am waiting for a MRI. The earliest one available isn’t until October. I’m hoping to get in sooner if someone cancels. We’re you pleased with the facility? I am having APR surgery. Is that what you had? How was your recovery? Can you share any advice? Thanks

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Aug 16, 2023

In reply to @rioa21 "I too am having my surgery at the Jacksonville campus. I’ve met with a wonderful colorectal..." + (show)

@rioa21, I'm tagging fellow ostomy members like @jtags @katydid77 and @patdame who have care at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville to make sure they saw your questions as you prepare for your appointment.