Posted 12/17/2014 8:17 PM (GMT 0)
I did not choose a j-pouch, opted for a perm ileo instead. But I can tell you that my surgery experience was pretty much the best I could hope for. In on a Monday morning, home on Friday afternoon. Zero complications, no infections. Pain was manageable- yes, there were a few rough hours in the first day or so, but any pain/anxiety I had was pretty quickly dealt with. Had the ileo created, colon removed, a recto-vaginal fistula repaired, & my anus removed & sewn shut. Major stuff, the surgery was just over 7 hours. I would say that you should really find a surgeon you trust- not necessarily like, but someone that you feel entirely comfortbale with. And confident with. I wound up meeting 3 surgeons before choosing the one I went with. And he's kind of a jerk, not a very personable guy. But, highly recommended, highly skilled, etc. The kind of guy none of the nurses like, but the only surgeon they'd ever use! For quality of life, mine is 10000x better than before. No comparison, whatsoever. No meds, I eat & drink whatever & whenever I choose, no endless appt's, no anemia, no accidents... I am much happier now than pre-surgery. Good luck!