Are All Colostomies Reversible?

Surgery to reverse a temporary colostomy or ileostomy (reconnection of the bowel) can be is a relatively minor procedure, but not all colostomies or ileostomies can be reversed.

What percentage of colostomies are reversed?

Conclusions: One-third of all colostomies were related to diverticulitis and only 56 percent were reversed. We identified a higher than expected mortality rate among older patients undergoing colostomy reversal. The impact of colostomy and reversal operations on both patients and the health care system is significant.

Can colostomy be reversed?

An end colostomy can also be reversed, but involves making a larger incision so the surgeon can locate and reattach the 2 sections of colon. It also takes longer to recover from this type of surgery and there's a greater risk of complications.