I feel healthier and can really enjoy life.
“I had the Brooke for 28 years before converting to the BCIR in 1992. The BCIR is like being born again. It is much easier to empty and feels like part of my own body. I can skate, ride bikes, play golf, swim and shower with my wife. I feel healthier and can really enjoy life.”
-Charles N. Read more testimonials.
The BCIR or Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir
The BCIR (or any type of Kock pouch) involves creating a reservoir from the patient’s own small intestine, as well as a nipple valve which connects to a small stoma (ostomy) on the lower abdominal wall. The nipple valve is fashioned from the intestine and is not a device of any kind. It is self sealing so no waste or gas comes out of the stoma until the patient goes into the bathroom and painlessly inserts a tube (intubating) and the waste flows through the tube into the toilet bowl. This is usually done from 3 to 5 times daily. Only a small covering is worn over the BCIR stoma to absorb mucous. The ostomy itself is flat and does not need to protrude above the skin. Each tube (catheter) lasts for months. The BCIR is significantly different from the Kock Pouch because it has an intestinal collar to help prevent slipping of the valve, as well as a different configuration of the pouch, designed to help prevent fistula (abnormal healing with communication to the skin from the intestine). For people living with a conventional ostomy, the continent ileostomy operation can transform their lives and make ileostomy reversal surgery a wonderful option.
The difference between the BCIR and a conventional ileostomy
The difference between the BCIR or Barnett Pouch and a conventional ileostomy is control. The BCIR is the freedom option of ileostomy reversal. It restores control over the elimination of intestinal waste to the patient. You now control your evacuations, being able to defer them for long periods of time during the day until convenient. You will sleep through the night not needing to worry about an external ileostomy pouch coming loose and leaking. You will be able to sleep prone – lying flat on your stomach. You will be unlimited in physical activities, and intimacy will be easier. If you are limited by a failed J pouch, you can avoid having a stoma (ostomy) and regain the quality of life you deserve.
If you are a person unhappy with your Brooke ileostomy, or if you have a malfunctioning or failed ileoanal J-pouch or Kock pouch, or if your colitis treatment has failed, this website will provide information about the BCIR – the Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir, and ileostomy reversal. It will demonstrate the difference between a typical ostomy and a continent ostomy. If you are facing removal of colon surgery (colectomy), or are not satisfied with wearing an ileostomy bag and all that is involved with ileostomy care, you will find information about how ileostomy care and ileostomy diet differs for people with a BCIR or properly functioning Kock Pouch compared to a conventional stoma. For prospective patients, we can provide patients to speak with who have been through ileostomy reversal surgery and have experienced the difference it has made in their lives. Feel free to contact us for more information and for any questions.