Nice posts, Clicky & Shaz! I think you both really put it into perspective.
Ugh, I am not a candidate for a jpouch because of an RV fistula that developed from an abscess about 2 1/2 years ago. At my initial surgery consult, prior to the fistula forming, I was told there really is no definitive test to decide if it's Crohns or UC- the only way they know is after the colon is out & they do a pathology report on it. Then, after the fistula developed I looked into surgical repair of it, about a year ago- the surgeon told me at that time I would not be a candidate for a jpouch, since the presence of a fistula screams "Crohns!" to a surgeon. Even though long-standing fistulas are seen in UC. I talked with my GI at some length about it, the whole crohns vs. UC thing- he still feels it's UC, due to scopes & biopsies... I trust him, I've never seen the inside of my colon, so.... Anyway, pouches aren't generally done in Crohns patients, since the pouch itself can get inflamed, etc. The funny thing is, like I said, I had full-on planned for a perm ileo initially- didn't want 2 or more surgeries, the possibility of complications, etc... But to be told that I could not try a jpouch really threw me off! The whole perm ileo idea just hit me differently.
I got you, Doz- jeez, coming off pred for the first time in 4 years??? Ouch..... big time OUCH! I'm surprised you didn't throw that little skull & crossbones icon into your posts....!!!! hahaha....