Considering BCIR

Hi there,
if you have had BCIR surgery or K pouch surgery after having permanent ileostomy surgery due to Ulcerative Colitis, would you mind telling me your experience?
thank you

I don't think there are many people here w BCIR/K. My understanding is that they aren't done very often? I know one of the surgeries is proprietary and only done in one place, you might look up that clinic and see if they have anyone you can contact to discuss experiences.

Yes, those are good sites, too. I have attended a BCIR seminar, met the surgeon, and am scheduled for BCIR surgery in December. Just researching as many sites as possible to see if I learn anything new at this point, from those with firsthand experience post surgery. I've contacted many people with BCIR now and a few with the K pouches. Too bad surgeons have shied away - it's the only option for people like me to live without an outer appliance. From most of those I've talked with, with a few exceptions, it's worth it. I can always go back to the ileostomy! Thanks and best to you.

thanks, Suebear. So glad that you and others do all you can to keep people informed and offer support. I'm not a candidate for anything other than a K Pouch or BCIR. I went to Cleveland Clinic in Ohio and also did a lot of research on BCIR. I guess I will learn how I fare with a BCIR and then what complications may arise which require future trips to Florida. But I travel there a couple of times a year anyway. I have the complete support of my two General Practioners who have already made several copies of the BCIR information packet and are contacting a local gastroenterologist and a bariatric surgeon to see if they can also offer post surgery assistance for me in the future. I'm very encouraged by this, since I've only read negative comments about medical support for patients in their home communities.

Wow, good for you. Healing and change takes time, hang tough. Sounds like you are on the right track.