UOAA Discussion Board

Hi, I am scheduled for my reversal in July. My ostomy surgery was unexpected and occurred the week following shoulder replacement surgery. Because I needed PT for the shoulder issue, I couldn't also have a home health ostomy nurse for questions. So, my question here is: What should you expect from the bowel prep before the surgery? I use a drainable bag and the wax wafer - will this work ok for the prep? Any tips on eating the days before the clean out and the day of? I have found an outpatient ostomy nurse center - would it be worth scheduling an appointment? Thank you!!

I assume that your prep will be the same as a colonoscopy. Yes, the drainable pouch should work fine, but don't plan on leaving the house. Once it gets started, you'll be living near the restroom the rest of the day! I always eat normally leading up to the prep. It doesn't matter what you ingest before, because EVERYTHING is going to be removed with the prep. If you're feeling uneasy about any part of the process, definitely check in with the outpatient ostomy nurse. They'll be able to answer a lot of questions for you. Myself, I was not able to have a reversal, so getting "hooked back up" may come with challenges that I am not familiar with.... Good luck with the surgery.

David