BCIR and Internal Pouch

I posted on that topic that I have what is called a Barnett's Continent Intestinal Reservoir.  It is similar to the Koch/Kock pouch. 

In brief, I had my entire large intestine and rectum removed due to Ulcerative Colitis.  The lower 2 feet of my small intestine was created into an internal pouch, or holding tank, for my stool  This pouch has a "living collar" and internal valve, also made out of small intestine, that keep the stool inside.  Then, when I need to empty my pouch, I intubate with a catheter (French #30 size).  I insert the catheter 3-4 times a day or when I feel a lot of gas or pressure.  With out the catheter, I cannot release gas, so there is no embarrassment or accidents (which I lived with for 15 years with the UC).  For me personally, the biggest positive for this type of pouch is the complete control I have.  I empty WHEN and WHERE I want to.

This surgery was quite major and I had it only 8 weeks ago.  I am doing great now, but it was a struggle.  There is currently only one major hospital that I know of that does this surgery, and it is call the Palms of Pasadena in St. Petersburg, Florida.  I encourage anyone who is interested to go to www.bcirostomy.com to look at the website and contact Susan Kay to mail you information.

I am not pushing this surgery on anyone, only suggesting something that could be an option for some who do not want an external appliance.  You need to have enough small intestine for it to work and it is not usually proscribed for those w/ Crohn's. It worked for me but won't work for everyone.  A lot of people try the j-pouch first, and then convert to the BCIR if the j-pouch doesn't work for them.  For me, I went straight for the BCIR since the UC had ruined my rectal muscles and I didn't have much control left.

I know of one other girl who posts on the UC board who has had this surgery and I'm sure she would be willing to share her experience if anyone is interested.  She helped inform me and support and guide me through my surgery.