Colon & Rectal Surgery at the University of Louisville -- Patient Information

Colorectal or Coloanal Anastomosis Surgery

Going Home
Post-Operative Care at Home
and Managing Your Temporary Ileostomy

When most people go home after colorectal or coloanal anastomosis surgery, they feel both tremendous relief and some anxiety. Glad to be home, they often worry about coping with the after effects of surgery and caring for their temporary ileostomy. Though all this is normal, try to relax.

Care at home is no different than what you were doing in the hospital. Moreover, thousands of people have gone through the same surgery and have successfully managed their homecare.

Remember: You are not alone. Help is only a phone call away. Home health agencies have someone you can talk to 24 hours a day, and they will send nurses out to assist you. You should also feel free to call your surgeon.

In most instances, you'll find answers to your questions in the guidebooks and instructions you received when you were in the doctor's office and the hospital.

The following links will provide you with some tips and suggestions that should help you through your post-operative recovery at home.

Going Home: Part I Your Emotions Talking with your Children Pain Gas Diet Fluids & Hydration	Going Home: Part II Dehydration Diarrhea Infection

Going Home: Part III Loop Ileostomy Care The Stoma Blockages	Going Home: Part IV Activities Hygiene Sex

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