About Reverse Colostomy
Key Highlights
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Restores natural bowel function and eliminates the need for an ostomy bag.Improves quality of life and body image for patients with a temporary colostomy.Performed using advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques when possible, leading to smaller scars and less pain.Carried out by specialized surgical gastroenterologists with expertise in colorectal surgery.Involves a comprehensive pre-operative assessment to ensure optimal conditions for a successful reconnection.
Who is this surgery for?
- Healing of the initial condition that required the temporary colostomy (e.g., resolved diverticulitis, healed anastomotic leak).
- Adequate recovery and nutritional status of the patient following the initial surgery.
- Confirmed integrity and health of the remaining colon, typically verified via imaging (like a contrast enema) and endoscopy.
- Patient's strong desire and medical suitability to reverse the stoma and resume normal bowel movements.
- Absence of active infection, cancer recurrence, or severe scarring that would prevent a safe reconnection.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive medical evaluation, including blood tests, imaging scans, and a colonoscopy to assess colon health.
- Bowel preparation (clear liquid diet and laxatives) to empty the colon before surgery.
- Pre-operative counseling with the surgeon and stoma nurse to discuss expectations and recovery.
- Adjustment or temporary cessation of certain medications, such as blood thinners, as advised by the doctor.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours prior to the procedure as per hospital protocol.
Risks & possible complications
- Anastomotic leak (leakage from the reconnection site), which is a serious complication.
- Infection at the surgical site or within the abdomen (peritonitis).
- Bleeding during or after the procedure.
- Formation of scar tissue (adhesions) leading to bowel obstruction.
- Incisional hernia at the site of the stoma closure or main incision.
- Temporary or permanent changes in bowel habits, such as increased frequency or incontinence.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay is required for monitoring, pain management, and ensuring bowel function resumes.
- Initial diet progresses slowly from clear liquids to soft foods as bowel movements return.
- Incision and stoma site must be kept clean and dry to prevent infection.
- Patients are encouraged to walk soon after surgery to promote circulation and prevent complications.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and address any concerns like diarrhea or constipation.
- Avoidance of heavy lifting and strenuous activity for several weeks as advised by the surgeon.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-7 days
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Expected recovery time: 4-6 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering reverse colostomy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for reverse colostomy in India include Miot Hospital Chennai, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform reverse colostomy. MediFyr helps you compare surgical gastroenterologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for reverse colostomy compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Reverse Colostomy in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated surgical gastroenterology teams and experience managing patients undergoing reverse colostomy.
Vivaan Malhotra, a 42-year-old software engineer...
Vivaan Malhotra, a 42-year-old software engineer and father of two, underwent an emergency colostomy after a severe diverticulitis perforation three years ago. The sudden surgery saved his life but left him with a permanent stoma. He struggled with the physical maintenance, frequent leaks, and the emotional toll of feeling 'different' from his active, pre-surgery self. He avoided swimming with his children and was constantly anxious about odors and appliance failures. His surgical gastroenterologist, Dr. Sharma, recommended a reverse colostomy after a colonoscopy confirmed complete healing and no inflammation for over 18 months. Vivaan was terrified of another major surgery but desperately wanted his life back. The laparoscopic reversal went smoothly. His initial recovery in the hospital was challenging with pain and relearning bowel function, but within six weeks, he was regaining control. Three months post-op, Vivaan feels liberated. He plays cricket with his sons and has regained his confidence. The emotional journey was from a state of resigned survival to joyful reclamation of his body and spontaneity in life.
Surgical Gastroenterologists for Reverse Colostomy
Explore experienced surgical gastroenterologists who regularly perform reverse colostomy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 35 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 10 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 33 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
- 19 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 17 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 16 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 25 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Vijayawada, vijayawada
- 11 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Vijayawada, vijayawada
- 16 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Jayanagar, Bangalore
- 12 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Jayanagar, Bangalore
- 30 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Chennai
- 25 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Chennai
- 29 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Chennai
- 18 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Hebbal, Bangalore
- 22 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, vijayawada
- 4 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Hyderabad
- 14 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist