This topic is about someone who currently has an ileostomy and is considering switching to a J-pouch, a surgical option that can sometimes offer a different quality of life. However, they have concerns about potential complications and how this change might affect their life, especially since they use a wheelchair. Here are some points to consider:

1. Assess your current quality of life:
- If your ileostomy is not causing medical issues and is manageable, it might be best to stick with it. The saying "don't fix what isn't broken" applies here.
- Think about whether you might regret not trying the J-pouch in the future.

2. Be aware of high complication rates:
- Many people with J-pouches report issues like chronic pouchitis, cuffitis, incomplete emptying, butt burn, fistulas, constant urgency, and eventual pouch failure, which sometimes leads them back to an ileostomy.
- However, there are success stories, with some individuals having a J-pouch for 20–40 years with minimal problems.

3. Consider the impact of wheelchair use:
- A J-pouch often requires 6–10 bathroom trips a day, which means frequent transfers from the wheelchair. An ileostomy might be easier to manage if you have limited mobility.

4. Do your homework before deciding:
- Ask your surgeon about their experience with J-pouch procedures and their success rates.
- Get a second opinion from another surgeon.
- Research what daily life with a J-pouch is like before making a decision.

5. Personal motivation is important:
- Only pursue the surgery if it is something you genuinely want. Don't feel pressured to do it just because your surgeon suggests it.

6. Consider alternative surgical options:
- If you decide to keep the ileostomy, some suggest a proctectomy with permanent closure (often called "Barbie Butt") to stop rectal mucus leakage and lower the risk of rectal cancer.

7. A common sentiment among many:
- Many people would choose to stay with the ileostomy, especially considering wheelchair use and the desire to avoid more surgeries and scar tissue.