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Understanding Ileostomy Reversal Surgery

An ileostomy is an opening in your abdomen created by your surgeon during surgery to remove a portion of your colon or rectum. The ileum, a section of your small intestine, is where your ileostomy is made. It allowed your defecation to exit your body and enter a stoma bag. Your ileostomy was performed to allow your anastomosis (the site where your surgeon reconnected your bowel) to recover.

It is possible to have a temporary ileostomy reversed with additional surgery. Reversals are common with loop ileostomies performed in an emergency situation. The incisions are closed during a reversal procedure to allow the bowel to be put back into the stomach. Following a reversal, you will be able to empty your bladder without the use of a stoma bag.

Ileostomy Reversal Surgery Treats:

Check IconPatients with temporary ileostomies
Check IconRestores normal bowel function
Check Icon Reduces dependence on stoma bags
 

Understanding Ileostomy Reversal Surgery

An ileostomy is an opening in your abdomen created by your surgeon during surgery to remove a portion of your colon or rectum. The ileum, a section of your small intestine, is where your ileostomy is made. It allowed your defecation to exit your body and enter a stoma bag. Your ileostomy was performed to allow your anastomosis (the site where your surgeon reconnected your bowel) to recover.

It is possible to have a temporary ileostomy reversed with additional surgery. Reversals are common with loop ileostomies performed in an emergency situation. The incisions are closed during a reversal procedure to allow the bowel to be put back into the stomach. Following a reversal, you will be able to empty your bladder without the use of a stoma bag.

Ileostomy Reversal Surgery Treats:

Check IconPatients with temporary ileostomies
Check IconRestores normal bowel function
Check IconReduces dependence on stoma bags

How Does the Ileostomy Reversal Operation Work?

Ileostomy Reversal Surgery in Leicester​

Closure ileostomy surgery is a procedure that reverses the ileostomy, allowing you to have bowel movements as you did before the initial surgery. During the reversal surgery, the patient is typically put under general anaesthesia to ensure they are asleep throughout the operation. The surgery usually takes about 30-60 minutes.

Following the surgery, the patient will have a small wound at the previous stoma site, which requires daily bandaging and care for 4 to 6 weeks until it heals. You’ll likely spend a few days in the hospital to make sure everything is okay, and you’ll be able to go home once you’ve had a bowel movement and aren’t having any complications.

You’ll need to take it easy and follow some guidelines as you recover. At first, you’ll start with a liquid diet and gradually add more foods as you get stronger. You’ll also need to avoid heavy lifting and driving for 6-8 weeks. Taking short walks can help you regain your energy. With time, you’ll be back to your normal routine and able to enjoy life without an ileostomy.

Treatment At a Glance

Purpose

Purpose

Restore bowel movements
Procedure Duration

Procedure Duration

30-60 minutes
Anaesthesia

Anaesthesia

General

Purpose

Restore bowel movements

Pain

Moderate

Procedure Duration

30-60 minutes

Recovery Time

6-8 weeks

Drive

After 6 weeks

Anaesthesia

General

Recovery Time

Recovery Time

6-8 weeks
Pain

Pain

Moderate
Drive

Drive

After 6 weeks

Benefits of Ileostomy Reversal Surgery

No More Ostomy Bag

The reversal surgery eliminates the need for an ostomy bag, allowing patients to live more freely and comfortably.

Faster Recovery

The procedure and subsequent care are designed to promote a quicker recovery, enabling patients to return to normal activities sooner.

Normal Stool Pattern

Patients typically regain a normal stool pattern post-surgery, significantly enhancing daily bowel routine and comfort.

Minimally Invasive

The procedure involves rejoining the intestines, which can be done with minimally invasive techniques in many cases.

Improved Quality of Life

Patients can experience significant improvements in comfort and daily activities without needing a stoma bag.

Reduce Medicinal Dependency

Eliminating the need for stoma bags and related supplies reduces ongoing medical expenses and inconvenience.

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Ileostomy Reversal Surgery Cost

Consultations start at £200. Please request a callback by filling out the contact form. We look forward to assisting you!

Why Choose Leicester Bowel Clinic?

At Leicester Bowel Clinic, we focus on bowel health and conditions, digestive issues, and cancer care. Our clinic offers minimally invasive procedures for bowel problems, ensuring effective results and patient comfort. We aim to provide personalised care for our patients and offer the latest treatments for hernias, bowel conditions and rectal disorders

Patient Testimonials

Mr Chaudhri is an excellent surgeon I can’t thank him enough for the operations he performed on me after i was diagnosed with bowel cancer, the care he showed me before and after the operations, his friendly nature and reassurance was a great help to me during a stressful time in my life i owe so much to him and i will always be grateful to him and his colleagues .

Written by an NHS patient

Satisfied Client

I’ve been under Mr Chaudhri’s care for around 2 years now and he has always shown me the best, personal care I could ask for.

Written by an NHS patient

Satisfied Client

This doctor spoke to you and made jokes to make you feel at ease. He was also clearly very knowledgable, and his words/advice were comforting and I left feeling uplifted. With regards to the procedure itself, he wasn’t aggressive but nor was he too slow where you had time to consider the slight discomfort; the pace and strength were fine and made for a quick and easy colonoscopy.

Written by an NHS patient

Satisfied Client

Our Locations

Leicester Bowel Clinic at Spire Hospital

  • Wednesdays evenings (Mr Runau) from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at: Spire Leicester Hospital Gartree Road Leicester LE2 2FF
  • To arrange an appointment directly with the Spire Leicester Hospital, please call the booking line on 0116 2653685

*Free on-site parking is available.

Meet The Team

Sanjay Chaudhri

Mr Sanjay Chaudhri

Francois Runau

Mr Francois Runau

Pippa Powley

Pippa Powley

Rebecca West

Rebecca West

Meet the team

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Ileostomy Reversal Surgery

01. What is the ileostomy reversal recovery time?

It’s normal to feel fatigued and weak once you’ve returned home after the surgery. You can get back on your feet and recover yourself by taking regular, short walks. After six to eight weeks of not doing any heavy lifting, you can resume driving as soon as you feel comfortable performing an emergency stop.

02. What are the ileostomy reversal side effects?

Reversal surgery of ileostomy can be simple, but if your colon is not working well, the closure may be harder and the recovery longer. After reversal surgery, you might experience some side effects. Below are some major ones:
  • Temporary bowel paralysis, which may require rest and other help to start working again
  • Stool leaking into your belly
  • Scar tissue that makes it difficult to poop
  • Hernia, when your bowels come through the cut made for your stoma
  • Bladder infection
  • Problems with peeing or intercourse due to nerve damage

03. What can I expect regarding pain after ileostomy reversal, and how can I manage it?

After ileostomy reversal, you can expect pain and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medicines, rest, and gentle exercises. The pain usually subsides within 2-4 weeks. You can follow a liquid diet initially, avoid heavy lifting, take regular pain medicine, get enough rest, and slowly increase physical activity to reduce pain. If you experience severe or worsening pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal swelling, or difficulty passing urine or stool, consult with your doctor first before taking any medicines.

04. When is the best time for ileostomy reversal?

Usually, ileostomy reversal takes place at least 3 months after the first surgery. If you require additional treatment like chemotherapy, or if you haven’t fully recovered from the initial operation, the reversal may need to be postponed for a longer period.

05. What to eat and drink after ileostomy surgery?

When you get an ileostomy, some foods might be difficult to digest. Your healthcare team might suggest starting with a low-fibre diet. Here are some steps you may take to help:
  • Drink plenty of water—about 6 to 8 glasses daily—to stay hydrated.
  • If possible, eat salty foods or add some salt to your meals to replace the salts lost in loose stool. If you have high blood pressure, heart, or kidney problems, check with your doctor first.
  • Eat less of foods that make you pass more stool, like fruit, vegetables, fried foods, fruit juice, caffeine, and alcohol.
  • Consuming bread, rice, potatoes, oats, smooth nut butter, pasta, bananas, and crackers will increase output.

06. When can I start exercising after my ileostomy reversal?

After ileostomy reversal surgery, it’s best to wait at least six weeks before doing any strenuous sports or exercise. You can start slowly and gradually increase your activity levels. For the first six weeks, it’s advised not to lift heavy weights because of the abdominal surgery.

07. How should I sleep after an ileostomy reversal?

It’s safest to sleep on your back, especially in the days and weeks following the surgery. If you prefer to sleep on your side, avoid putting pressure on the side where your stoma used to be to prevent any discomfort or pressure on that area.
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