surgery option

I think they take out the whole colon because if you only take out one part, you will continue to have UC in whatever is left. By removing the whole colon you essentially cure the disease. At least that is the way I understand it.

I wonder about this myself. I'll bet some research would be worthwhile. I wonder how they handle surgery in Europe.

If any doctor or surgeon tells a UC patient that they can have only a part of the colon removed RUN TO ANOTHER DOCTOR FOR A SECOND OPINION! UC affects the colon and the rectum and both organs must go! Some people have kept their rectums (poor recommendation) and only had to continue with UC meds after surgery. What's the point of having surgery if you are going to continue to be ill? Many of those people returned for additional surgery to remove the rectum.

Your GP does not know much about UC or about surgery for UC. This too is not uncommon. I have met many doctors since my surgery who have no idea what a jpouch is.

Sue

     I saw a GI surgeon last summer and asked if I could just have my rectum removed as I suffer with ulcerative proctitis.  He told me unfortunately it just doesn't work like that.  If they removed the rectum the UC would most likely manifest itself in another location in the colon.  He did NOT recommend surgery for me because my condition was considered mild/moderate (hate to be a patient with severe UC...OMG) and he told me to just continue with my meds and remission would most likely occur.  He was right but it took a good seven months to achieve remission.