A study to assess the efficacy of a probiotic in the restoration of bowel function of patients undergoing reversal of ileostomy.

INTERVENTION: VSL#3 Dosage: 2.5g sachet twice daily for 4 weeks Ingredients: 450 billion lactic acid bacteria, cornstarch Mode: orally mixed with water or apple juice CONDITION: Reversal of temporary loop ileostomy PRIMARY OUTCOME: To assess the efficacy of VSL#3 in improving the GastroIntestinal Quality of Life Index in patients who have undergone reversal of a loop ileostomy. SECONDARY OUTCOME: The Bowel Function Diary will include recording frequency of bowel actions, abdominal pain, episodes of nausea and vomiting, incontinence episodes, and probiotic compliance. INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1. Over 18 years of age 2. Able to fill in questionnaires and diary 3. Had an anterior resection or Hartmann's procedure 4. Undergoing reversal of ileostomy