This topic is about exploring the BCIR, or Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir, as an alternative to a conventional ileostomy. The person considering this change has had a conventional ileostomy since 2007 and is curious about the potential benefits and challenges of switching to a BCIR. They are seeking advice and personal experiences from others who have undergone this type of surgery.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Quality-of-life improvements:
- Many people report a better body image, easier clothing fit, and simpler experiences with activities like swimming and traveling. Instead of carrying full ostomy supplies, you only need a catheter and some lubricating jelly.
- Those who have switched to a BCIR or K-pouch say they would not go back to a conventional ileostomy.

2. Recovery and early care:
- Initially, managing the new pouch requires frequent emptying, which can disrupt sleep for about the first month.
- Although there is some pain and frustration, many feel the effort is worthwhile.
- If you are discharged early, you might need to use a leg bag and manage care on your own.
- A 3-week inpatient program can help you avoid using a leg bag after discharge, as the care team assists with the stretching schedule.

3. Intubation schedule after discharge:
- In the first week, you will need one overnight intubation.
- Gradually, the interval between intubations is increased by about an hour each day until you can comfortably go 12–15 hours without needing to empty the pouch.

4. Physical activity timeline:
- After 6 weeks, you may be able to travel and host large gatherings without issues.
- By 2 months, you could return to the gym or activities like CrossFit and light lifting.
- At 6 months, you might resume full Olympic weightlifting and regular workouts.

5. Hospital and surgeon options:
- The BCIR Center at Palms of Pasadena Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida, offers a dedicated inpatient wing for continent-ileostomy patients with a standard 21-day stay, private suites, and amenities for family members.
- Dr. Jacobson in Dallas, Texas, performs K-pouch procedures and has experience with Continent Ileostomy Reservoirs.

6. Living-alone considerations:
- People living alone have managed with short-term family help or independently. Some find recovery faster at home with adequate support.

7. Supplies after adaptation:
- Long-term, you will only need a catheter and a small tube of lubricant, eliminating the need for ostomy bags, wafers, and other supplies.

8. General consensus:
- While recovery is demanding and requires resilience, those who have undergone the procedure find the outcome life-changing and preferable to a conventional stoma.