The ileoanal J-pouch is a common surgical option offered to individuals that need to have the colon removed in order to treat certain illnesses, such as ulcerative colitis or familial polyposis. However, in some cases, this option fails or doesn’t work as well as it should. The information below will help you learn how to recognize a failed J-pouch and deal with it appropriately.
What is a J-Pouch?
A J-Pouch is a surgical procedure that involves the creation of a reservoir from part of the intestines. This reservoir is connected to the anal canal in order to allow for the passage of waste. If you have an ileoanal J-pouch, you can expect to have anywhere from four to seven stools each day. After your first urge for a bowel movement, you can defer emptying the pouch, but only for one hour.
How Do I Know if My J-Pouch Has Failed?
If a J-pouch fails or doesn’t function as well as it should, you may notice any of the following symptoms:
- Development of an abnormal connection between the skin around your anus and the pouch (fistula).
- Leakage of gas or waste.
How is a Failed J-Pouch Fixed?
If you are not happy with your J-pouch or if it is completely ineffective, the best course of action is to convert the J-pouch into a traditional ostomy or a Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir (BCIR).
Although either of these options will work, many patients choose to convert their failed J-pouch to a BCIR because of the many advantages of this type of ostomy. Some of these advantages include:
- More control over eliminations.
- No external ileostomy pouch.
- No limit on physical activities.
- Less risk of leakage.
If you are interested in learning more about treatment options for a failed J-pouch, please call Dr. Don Schiller today to make an appointment.
