One of the reasons single-stage procedures are rarely done today is because they have a higher rate of problems, partly because they skip the step that checks for leaks. OTOH, the procedure worked fine for many, myself included. So: you might be able to persuade your doctor to skip it, but if a leak is missed you'll have much, much more difficult procedures than a pouchogram to deal with.

Pouchograms are unpleasant, but not terrible. It's an unfortunate necessity.

They don't take long. Honestly, it's nothing compared to all the pain from surgeries.

Gotta bite that bullet eventually, regardless.

Hello, KC23.

The pouchogram I had before takedown took no more than 10 minutes. You will get through it because you got through the big surgery and the aftermath. It is a shorter, quicker version of a colonoscopy (although you are sedated for a colonoscopy). Remember to relax all your muscles, not just the muscle down there. Don't tense up because that will make it difficult to get the scope in. Ask them to let you know just as they insert so you can take a deep, slow breath in, through your nose, then exhale very slowly through your mouth, your exhale taking longer than the inhale.. Keep up this deep breathing when you feel anxious. Focus on your breath, listen to the sound of your breath. This will help avoid dizziness and ease your stress. Don't think about it too much. Try to see it as a small bump in the road to wellness. You will be off the table before you know it. Just think that this procedure is your golden ticket to takedown! 

My pouchogram was not difficult at all. No pain that I can remember, they just inserted a thin tubing with fluids, very controlled.  It lasted about 10 mins.  No discomfort.  I remember my surgeon saying it would be more embarrassing than uncomfortable, but considering all the other "stuff", I had been through, it was a breeze.  The radiologist and his team were great as well, and told me to let them know if it was uncomfortable in any way.  Just my experience.  I remember the prep being just fluids after noon time meal, and nothing red.

I had to go through 3 pouchogram's before my takedown. 

Because things are tender down there, you'll maybe feel a slight discomfort when the thin tube is inserted (there will be a lubricant used to make it easier), but once it's in, you'll be fine. The tube is quite thin it won't cause you any harm. You'll be asked to roll into different positions which can sometimes cause a little tug but trust me, coming from someone who has been through 3 of these, it is nothing to be worried about whatsoever. It'll be over before you know it.

When I've had colonoscopies and pouchogram's, I've always taken interest by watching the screen. I find it all very interesting. I tend to just have a full blown conversation with the member of staff examining me, asking her/him about what's going on down there.

I was so excited to get rid of my ostomy I would have done just about anything before the take down (kidding). If you have an ostomy then you would not have been using your rectum/anus for a while and nothing should be tender. I had no issues with the pouchogram--a very narrow tube is inserted , but not very far at all. No pain and no sedation needed. They need you to be awake to use your muscles to hold the tube in. You do not want to have the take down and have a leaky pouch. Think about all the problems that would cause. Don't worry!!!