Dr. Don Schiller - The Ileostomy Specialist
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Dr. Don Schiller has retired from his practice
involving BCIR and Kock Pouch surgery.

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When Should I Have an Ileostomy Reversal?

September 18, 2015  ·  By: MD

If you’ve had a temporary ileostomy due to colon cancer or another condition, you’ll probably have it surgically reversed at some point. But  is there a preferred time frame for having an ileostomy reversal?

In general, there’s not. Theoretically, you could have a temporary ileostomy reversal several years after the original surgery occurred. However, according to a Feb. 2015 meta analysis, the sooner patients have reversal surgery, the better their functional outcome will be. 

The study found that ileostomy closure within three months led to a better functional outcome for patients, in terms of fecal continence. Patients who wait longer than three months to have a reversal experience less continence. While there’s no clear evidence for why this occurs, researchers think reduced functional adaptability of the neorectum occurs following after a longer diversion.

However, reversal surgery isn’t always an option within a three-month period. Factors including health concerns and treatment plans may prevent a temporary ileostomy from being reversed within a 12 week period. When the reversal doesn’t take place relatively quickly, there’s a greater chance of fecal incontinence occurring and therefore the patient’s quality of life suffers.

Continence Options After Ileostomy Reversal

If you’ve had a reversal and still experience struggles with fecal incontinence, an effective option is the Barnet Continent Intestinal Reservoir. The BCIR is a way to maintain fecal continence without having to wear a colostomy bag or maintain a J-Pouch. 

During the surgery, a pouch will be made from your intestine where solid waste will collect. A stoma, or opening, will be created in your abdomen. Several times a day, you’ll use a thin tube called a catheter to empty the BRIR into a toilet. There’s no embarrassing leakage or discharge since the stoma is self sealing. And you’ll have complete control over when and where you empty the BCIR. It’s a great option for patients with active lifestyles who need to effectively manage fecal incontinence.

 

Retirement Announcement

Dr. Don Schiller has retired from his practice involving BCIR and Kock Pouch surgery. To find a surgeon who can help you, go to www.qla-ostomy.org and click on the tab Medical Info and you will see a Directory of all the surgeons in the country who perform Continent Ileostomy surgery.

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