Open Colostomy Reversal

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

• Care notes
• Ambulatory
• Discharge
• Español

Open colostomy reversal is done to reconnect your intestines and remove the stoma.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You suddenly feel lightheaded and short of breath.
• You have chest pain when you take a deep breath or cough. You may cough up blood.

Seek care immediately if:

• You have severe pain in your abdomen.
• Your abdomen becomes swollen and hard.
• Your vomit or bowel movements are black or have blood in them.
• Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.

Call your surgeon or ostomy specialist if:

• You have a fever of 101ºF (38.3ºC) or higher.
• You are not able to have a bowel movement for 3 days.
• You have nausea or are vomiting.
• Blood soaks through your bandage.
• Your surgery area is red, warm, swollen, or draining pus.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Surgical area and bandage care:

Check the area for signs of infection daily. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, foul smell, pain, and pus. Change your bandage if it gets wet or dirty and as directed by your healthcare provider.

Self-care:

• Use adult incontinence briefs. As your bowel function gets back to normal, you may have accidents. Your bowel movements may be more liquid.
• You may need a barrier cream to keep your anus from getting irritated from wiping. Clean your anus with warm water after each bowel movement. Reapply barrier cream after cleaning. Do not use baby wipes or powder. These can cause more irritation.
• Do not lift more than 10 pounds for 4 weeks or as directed. Do not bend or twist. This will help your surgery area heal and decrease your risk for a hernia.
• Do not drive until your healthcare provider says it is okay.

Do not smoke:

Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause blood vessel damage. Blood vessel damage can keep your surgery area from healing properly. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

Nutrition after surgery:

• Do not eat late at night. You may have bowel movements through the night. Your digestive system needs time to work properly.
• Eat a variety of high-fiber foods to prevent constipation. High-fiber foods include cooked beans, fruits, vegetables, and some cereals. Ask your healthcare provider how much fiber you should have.
• Avoid or limit foods that can irritate your digestive system. These foods include spicy and fatty foods, and citrus fruits, such as lemons and oranges. Also avoid foods that cause gas, such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. Beans, eggs, and fish may also cause gas. Limit alcohol and carbonated drinks, such as soft drinks.
• Drink liquids as directed to prevent constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
• Exercise regularly. Exercise helps move bowel movements through your colon. It also helps prevent blood clots. Ask your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for you.

Follow up with your surgeon or ostomy specialist as directed:

You may need more tests to make sure your colon is healing properly. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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