Both the colon and rectum are removed, and a permanent ileostomy is created. Patients then wear a bag to collect wastes that leave the body through the ileostomy. The length of stay in the hospital depends on the type of surgery performed. The usual stay is less than one week. After hospital discharge, recuperation at home is four to six weeks.
Patients usually return to work or school in six to eight weeks.
Your doctor will discuss this with you at your post-operative visit four to six weeks after surgery. Most patients are able to eat normal diets and lead normal lives following surgery. Some people notice more frequent bowel movements. Otherwise, their lives will be perfectly normal. Their sexual and social activities are unaffected.