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I am 54 year old, male with 22 years of UC, last year treated for Lymphoma and Colon Cancer. I have been diagnosed with Ulcerative Pouchitis last week.

I had my J Pouch surgery on August 4, 2017, 3 months later, things are not good, currently take Cipro, Flagyl, Canasa, Metumucil, Lomotil, Immodium, I still have 15+ BM's per day, losing weight, severe butt burn. My GI is recommending to ditch the J Pouch and go to permanent ileostomy. My initial experience with the ileostomy appliance was not good, I was going through chemo at that time. Had many issues with the bag leakage and skin rash. What can I expect if go to permanent ileo, will have a I life? Will I have any restriction regarding diet?

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Have you tried a high dosage of VSL#3 probiotic? A few years ago, I was recommended to try 8x sachets per day by the company which manufactures them. My circumstances were different to yours, but research does appear to back-up this particular probiotic. However, it is quite expensive.

I have had my j pouch since 2014. I believe each experience is different and for some, it can take 12 months or so, to 'settle down.  I was doubtful as to whether I was going to have the final surgery, that finally ended up with the j pouch. However, I now have absolutely no regrets. I find it far more convenient than having an external pouch. But each of us has different experiences and some are very happy with their ext pouches. If it were me, I'd definitely persevere, but appreciate it isn't easy for you. In the meantime, maybe seeing another GI would be a good idea. I wish you well.

 

Give it more time you and your pouch deserve it. I have had my jpouch over ten years. The first year was a learning curve by trial and error. I would talk to your surgeon also read the boards everyone is different. I take a muscle relaxer to stop going to the restroom a lot. I also have B.Burn sometimes but it got better after I stopped eat tomatoes and I just figured that out about 8 months ago. things get better be patient. Find a General practitioner and a GI that are very familiar with Jpouch and UC. 

Most people adapt well to an end ileostomy. A temporary diverting ileostomy is not the same and prone to poor seals and leaks.

That said, 3 months seems awfully quick, even though you’ve tried pretty much everything except biologics. With a history of lymphoma, biologics are probably contraindicated, as are azathioprine and methotrexate. The only other suggestion I can think of is steroids (short term) and more time.

Jan

TPN should buy you some time to sort this out. I cannot imagine that VSL#3 would turn this around when you had no improvement with all those meds. One thing I do not see mentioned and forgot to ask about is whether you have been tested for a C. difficile or CTM infection. Those would not likely respond to the treatments you are on.

Jan

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