The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
Colostomy reversal
RESTORING BOWEL FUNCTION AFTER A COLOSTOMY
If you've had a temporary colostomy, you'll need to have this procedure to restore bowel function
What is a colostomy reversal
A colostomy reversal is less invasive than the initial colostomy procedure and your recovery time may be shorter. The time of your reverse colostomy will depend on your health and circumstances. Some people can live with a colostomy for several years before having it reversed. Your consultant will review and discuss with you if you are suitable for a colostomy reversal.
Need to know
Reversing a loop colostomy Your consultant will make a cut around the stoma (opening) in your tummy. This is so they can access your colon. They'll then reattach the upper part of your colon to the remaining part of it. Reversing an end colostomy Your consultant will make a large cut around your tummy. They'll then reattach both sections of your colon. Reversing an end colostomy is rare and can make for a longer recovery period. Both reversal procedures are carried out under general anaesthetic, which means you'll be asleep.
Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
After your procedure, we'll transfer you to our recovery ward, where you'll be looked after for 3 to 10 days. It may be some time before your bowel movements return to normal. Your consultant will let you know when you can leave and get back to your usual routine.
Our Colostomy reversal locations
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Shard Outpatients
The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street W1G 8EA London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.