I have been having problems for 1 year now. Had surgery in 2002. Took a year and a half to fully recover and things were good for a couple of years. Although I always went about 15 times per day, not really any problems. Then started with cronic pouchitis and cuffitis and have not been right since about 2005. Recently have lost 25 pounds and having lower pelvic pain as well as up near gallbladder, feeling nautis and unalbe to eat sometimes. Did CT Scan and found I have a fistula, 2 abcesses and fissues. Bottom has been very sore. Am waiting to see surgeon for an examination under anesetic to see what is what. Are these things repairable and what is the success rate. GI suggested that she may repair problems do temp iliostomy and hook back up if things heal properly. Anyone had any experiences with this and if so were things successful. How long does all this take. GI also suggested that once everything is done perhaps I could take remicade treatments to prevent reoccurance. Not sure if I have crones or not. Please help.

Awww Susan, my heart breaks for what you're going through. Things are rough now, but I know from reading posts from others who've gone through what you're going through that things can only get better...hang in there. I just wanted to send healing vibes and a virtual hug and I'm sure others will be along to share their experiences. Hang tough...and stay strong..you'll make it through this and be stronger for it.

Hi Susan,

What a tough road! An examination under anaesthesia is the only way to really diagnose and decide what the best fix will be. Abcesses and fissures can be dealt with, and perhaps with a temporary ostomy, your fistula would heal. You didn't indicate where the fistula is. Surgical interventions for fistulas in women don't have a high success rate, but that doesn't keep a lot of us from trying it (or anything short of pouch removal!). There are lots of posts on fistulas. Do a search on "fistula gals" here for lots of people's experiences. Remicade does keep may people in remission from chronic pouchitis. When is your diagnostic exam?

You've lost a lot of weight. If you're not seriously distressed and maybe depressed, I'd be surprised (as one who's been through quite a bit). But you're not alone. Keep coming here and asking questions: there are many wonderful encouragers here.

Best wishes,

Barbara