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Rectal cancer - have to decide whether to have a ileostomy or colostomy. I'm 79 years old. Would be grateful to hear from others

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Hi

Just been diagnosed with rectal cancer following a colonoscopy and MRI . I have large polyp in the lower rectum and cancer in the bowel lining but nowhere else. I'm awaiting a date for an op but have to decide whether to have an ileostomy or colostomy. Because its so low in the rectum a reversal might  be problematic and at 79 I'm not sure I want to risk the 20% chance of a reversal leaking and another operation down the line and also the fact the rectum will be very short with little capacity. I'd be grateful to hear of anyone else experiences.

TIA

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    Hello ,I had colorectal surgery in 2009 after chem and radiotherapy, I had an Illeostomy and six months later the reversal.

    • If I had known the probe lems I woul have with my bowel I would have had the colostomy, I wear Tena ladies pants all the time as my bowels are very unpredictable either totally constipated or violent diarrhea. I would ask your consultant how you bowels might be .I found the bag really easy to use and very discreet.
    • Either way I wish you well in your decision .

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