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Has anyone here had a Rectal Resection? or a resection?

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 12/30/2007 4:39 AM (GMT 0)
I haven't even tried the Humira yet, but my doctor said if it doesn't work out, he wants to try a rectal resection before doing the illeostomy.  I just am looking for anyone who has experienced this and how did it work out for you?  How severe was the surgery?  I am trying to be hopeful about Humira, but just want to be informed about the resection.  Thanks.
Posted 12/30/2007 1:16 PM (GMT 0)
I would be very leary to try a resection for UC.  Is this a recommendation from a CR surgeon or from your GI?
Posted 12/30/2007 2:03 PM (GMT 0)
Why is he jumping to surgery so fast - you haven't even tried Imuran or 6mp yet?

Posted 12/30/2007 2:54 PM (GMT 0)
My understanding is that good CR surgeons will not do a partial colectomy on UC patients. This because the disease inevitably recurs in the remaining section of the colon, and requires more surgery. If you're considering surgery, be sure you get opinions from a couple of qualified CR surgeons. I'm doubting that they'll recommend rectal resection or partial colectomy.
Posted 12/30/2007 11:33 PM (GMT 0)
This was a recommendation from my GI since I only have the one ulcer in my rectum and he is afraid it will preforate. He said first to "see what happens" with the Humira. If it doesn't work out, he would like to try to remove the ulcer and reconnect it and just "see what happens"... He said it is likely a new ulcer could develop there, but he could give it a try before the illeostomy. He said the resection is a lot easier than repairing a rectovaginal fistula...
Posted 12/31/2007 1:07 PM (GMT 0)
I would not let your GI make surgical decisions for you, they are trained to treat problems with drugs, not to make decisions regarding surgery. Having a resection (if you could find a surgeon who would agree to it) is only postponing the inevitable if you have cycled throught all the UC drugs. Your best choice is to consult with a surgeon to see what his/her opinion is on a resection. The few people I have met who have had partial surgeries have all had to go back for the entire surgery at some point. Partial surgery does not end the misery.

Sue
Posted 12/31/2007 2:38 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks for the replies. I guess that is my biggest concern, going through the surgery and recovery with my 2 young boys, and ending up having to get more surgery anyways. I really want my rectum ripped out, as crazy as that sounds! I have had so much trouble and pain from it. I wish the colon didn't have to come out too since it looks so healthy, that sneaky, lousy colon of mine!
Posted 12/31/2007 2:45 PM (GMT 0)

I was in a similar situation, my disease was limited to my rectum.  The colon appeared fine.  But both had to go in order to give me a better chance of living healthy.  I also know how hard these decisions are and think you are wise to do your research.  You will know when it's time for a change.

Sue

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