Posted 12/11/2017 7:24 PM (GMT 0)
I don't think so.
If the narrowing is caused by scar tissue, then your doctor is right: Stelera won't work. Your doctor or surgeon could try dilating the narrowing manually. That works for some people, but usually requires several goes. There's also no guarantee it will last.
Crohn's and j-pouches don't tend to mix, which is why most surgeons won't even do them for Crohn's patients. My surgeon wouldn't even contemplate a j-pouch for me: she rejected the idea immediately. So yeah, I think unless you want to continue suffering, a permanent ileostomy is inevitable.
Has anyone discussed what to do with the defunct j-pouch? Whether to surgically remove it or leave it in? If not, you should discuss the pros and cons with your surgeon.
Make sure you see a stoma nurse before the surgery and get measured up for a stoma; it's very important to place it correctly, particularly if it's going to be permanent.