Hi ya'll! I currently have my jpouch created and have a loop ileostomy. I cannot get the take down because my rectal cuff is angry and flaring up. We have tried local suppositories/enemas, oral medications and even biologics with no luck. Does everyone know a great surgeon that can removed my rectal cuff while leaving my sphincter muscles intact. I would like to stay in MO if possible. Thank you.
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Crystal, as hard as it is to travel for surgery I suggest you find a surgeon who is very experienced at hand-sewn anastomoses. The travel will be a significant nuisance once, but you’ll live with your surgeon’s handiwork for the rest of your life. You might find the right person in MO, but I think it’s unlikely except maybe in St. Louis. I traveled from Kansas City to Los Angeles to have my surgery.
Washington University in Saint Louis might be the best place to look. I would assume they do their share of pouch operations not only for IBD patients but also for patients at their Siteman Cancer Center who might require handsewn expertise.
Sorry I can't be of more help -- my surgery was done in St. Louis a long time ago, by a now-retired pediatric surgeon.
Thank you! I am leaning toward Chicago. Dr. Strong from the Cleveland Clinic just went there. I have read great things about him.