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Surgery


Wed, November 26, 2014 6:05 PM

Been 2 years now and all meds have not worked. Dr at beth Israel wants me to consider colon removed. I go to the bathroom about 6-8 times a day now.   I don't eat or drink till late afternoon because of my work. Not near bathrooms. Very concerned about surgery and life changes. Only had 1 hospital stay of 4 days about a year ago. Just need advice kinda lost

FPO skip
Joined Nov 26, 2014

Sat, November 29, 2014 11:41 PM

 Reply posted for skip.

I had my colon removed in my 30s due to ulcerative colitis.  At the time, I had my choice of a Koch pouch or a J pouch.  After a lot of research and talking with a number of patients, I opted for the Koch Pouch.  It was the best decision of my life.  I immediately felt better after the surgery and have relatively few problems over the years (it's been almost 30 years).  Occasionally, I'll get an inflammation in the pouch, but nothing like dealing with UC.  Antibiotics clear it up.  I have heard more difficulties with the J pouch as far as "pouchitis" goes.  If meds don't work for you, you may have no other option but a surgical one.  Just know there's light at the end of the tunnel if you do.  And no matter which surgery you opt for, you'll feel better.  Certainly, there's an adjustment to each procedure.  However, I think it was worth it!

FPO indialogue
Joined Nov 29, 2014

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