the colon is still functional and viable. when the colon is re-connected that raw-looking ostomy that you are seeing will not be used. it will be trimmed off so that there is a "fresh" area for the anastomosis. you are most likely be entitled to cobra insurance from your employer but you may have to do it within 60 days. while cobra insurance can be pricey it will be considerably less expensive when compared to the cost of this second surgery. there may be other insurance opportunities such as the affordable care insurance as well so please speak with an insurance broker.
how long can the colon stay alive after surgery? . my husband suffered from diverticulitis for about 3 yrs. he finally had 9 inches of his colon removed in aug. he has the ostomey bag. i lost my job and now we have no insurance. he was scheduled to be reconnected around the 2nd. wk. in nov. we change his bag once a week his skin around the ostomey area is so red irritated small blister i just want to know how long the colon could be disconnected and still be fully functional