I have indeterminate UC / Crohns that only affects my sigmoid colon and has not progressed beyond this region in 15 years. I had two perianal fistulas in 2005, which led one doctor to think I have Crohns and not UC. Regardless, he won't recommend the J Pouch because of the existing setons in my fistulas. That being said, am I candidate for the K-Pouch or BCIR?

1) Does anyone know of any surgeons in the Washington DC area who perform this surgery? I have met so far with Dr. Lee Smith and Dr. Colvin but have not been able to get ahold of either to ask them if they perform this procedure.

2) Also, are most of you getting K-Pouches or are you now transitioning to BCIR's?

3) Can you swim, surf, dive, etc. with your K-Pouches?

4) Have pouchitis or fistulas been a problem?

5) Can you drink alcohol with a K Pouch?

This message has been edited. Last edited by: DeathStalker,

The only person that could determine if you are a candidate for a 'continent' ostomy would be your surgeon.

1)here is a list of surgeons doing 'continent' ostomies http://j-pouch.org/eve/forums/...531006091/m/23110816

2)there is a mix of both. there is also a new type called the Tpouch which is done by few doctors

3)you can do most any activity with the pouch.I think diving is ok but would check on that

4)fistulas and pouchitis have been reported. Pouchitis is not as prevalent in these pouches.

5)you can drink with the pouch

you may want to read posts in this topic to become really acquainted with these pouches.
there is a lot of information here.

Best of luck if you decide on the Koch Pouch..it is a rough operation, takes time to recover..once you do, given there are no complications, you will do fine..a successful outcome leads to getting your health and life back...again, it takes while to recover. Personally would reccomend Dr J. Bauer, Mt Sinai, NYC. Lot of skill and experience, creates a great valve and pouch...Best of Luck..hope all turns out great ...it takes time to recover...do your best and follow the surgeons instructions...