fq, I can't give you much advice about the fistula, but fissures are a very, very common occurrence with the j-pouch simply due to the frequency of bms, and I would wager that more likely than not, the majority of us here have had them at some point or another. A fissure is not really a complication, though very occasionally they may need to be surgically addressed, particularly if they become infected. But don't let it get you down! The vast majority heal on their own. As I said in another thread, make sure you use a good barrier cream like Calmoseptine, or ask your doctor for a lidocaine ointment if the pain is too great. As for the fistula, I'm not an expert on those but many people have fistula repairs and go on to have completely functional pouches with no other problems. Best of luck to you!

Spooky, i could hug you! i was crying last night, feeling like i am alone and these things will never heal. you gave me hope today. i appreciate it.

p.s. i would hug your cat too, but i'm allergic....it's so cute though!

People with colons get fissures commonly - it is an 'outside' event and will not cause any pouch problem.

Glad to be of help! Haha. My cat is shy with new people so you wouldn't have to worry about her!

Some people find that investing in a bidet is a good way to manage fissues--less wiping cuts down on the irritation. Alternatively, wet wipes or baby wipes can be more soothing that regular toilet paper so that's an option as well. And, of course, the recommendation not to strain when having a BM, which can cause fissures to occur, or make an existing one worse by tearing at it.