J-pouch surgery has often been viewed in the past as a last resort treatment for ulcerative colitis when all medications have failed. However, this is not necessarily the case. Surgery and medications for ulcerative colitis should be discussed in its early stages. Who is a candidate for J-pouch surgery?
What Is J-Pouch Surgery?
J-pouch surgery is usually a series of surgeries used for patients who have lost the use of their colon or large intestine due to a damaging illness like ulcerative colitis.
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that originates in the rectum and extends up into the colon. Medications can treat, but not cure the disease. Removing the colon will prevent the spread of inflammation.
When it needs to be removed, patients have two alternatives. In consultations with Colorectal Surgical Associates, they can choose an ileostomy or a J-pouch. Contact one of our locations in Kansas City, MO today by calling (816) 941-0800.
Ileostomy
This surgery diverts your ileum or the end of the small intestine to a new opening in your abdomen called a stoma. Waste or feces comes out of the stoma into an external ileostomy bag (on the outside of your body) which you must empty.
J-Pouch Surgery
If your anus still functions, J-pouch surgery can replace your colon and your rectum internally. The pouch is formed from the end of the small intestine into a J shape where stool can wait until it’s time for a bowel movement.
The patient has control over the timing and is able to move their bowels normally.
Best Candidates for J-Pouch Surgery
Colorectal Surgical Associates will make the final decision about whether a patient is a good candidate for J-pouch surgery.
The surgeon will evaluate the following criteria before making a recommendation:
- the overall health of the patient
- the type of problem
- the severity of the problem
- whether the problem can be relieved by removing the colon
- whether or not the potential benefits outweigh the risks
In general, active people with good anal function are good candidates.
Patients who are ill and weak may not be approved as the risks may outweigh the benefits.
Patients with poorly controlled diabetes could be too risky for the procedure.
Patients with an underlying health condition like a heart condition could make anesthesia too risky.
Be sure to discuss post-surgery complications with Colorectal Surgical Associates before making any decisions about a J-pouch surgery.
Contact our trained physicians at Colorectal Surgical Associates to discuss J-pouch surgery and whether it is right for you. We have convenient locations for patients located in Kansas City, including Gladstone, Overland Park, Independence, and Lee’s Summit. Call us today at (816) 941-0800.