follow up with colo-rectal surgeon or gastroenterologist?

JackieNY422Member

Hi all, hope you're all doing well! I haven't posted here in a few years. My situation is basically that I had a wonderful colo-rectal surgeon who created my j-pouch 14 years ago, and I followed up with him for several years. I've since moved away, and am now pregnant and having symptoms I haven't dealt with in a decade (will post about that on the women's health forum). I need a new doctor to treat me long-term (I think I'm going to have a very long 7 months ahead of me), but I'm not sure if I should be looking for a new colo-rectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist for my long-term care. Anyone have thoughts? Thanks so much! Your insight has always been invaluable to me over the years as a lurker!

1/23/1811:30 AM

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ElmerFuddMember

I would think for pregnancy-related symptoms, addressing ongoing pouch health and status, and even for rectal cuff inspection that you would be better off with a really good GI. If you have had surgical revisions, additional surgeries (adhesions, for ex), or have had mechanical pouch issues - then I would think a surgeon would be the better choice. But sounds to me like you have been doing well and a GI would be the better options.

1/23/1812:24 PM

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JackieNY422Member

Thanks for the input, @elmerfudd ! I was leaning the same way. I haven't had any additional pouch-related surgeries since my pull through, and my issues now aren't surgical (partial obstruction that comes and goes, decreased output).

1/23/1812:45 PM

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Jan DollarModerator, RN, retired

I’ve been seeing a gastroenterologist since 1 year post op; 21 years. I have seen no need for a surgeon.

Jan

1/23/1811:44 PM

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JackieNY422Member

Thanks for your input, Jan Dollar!

So I think I'm ending up with both, in the end. My obgyn wants to bring a colo-rectal surgeon in for my planned c-section, and I'm scheduled to receive ongoing care from a gastroenterologist throughout and after my pregnancy.

1/25/183:36 PM

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