Switching from a Brooke Ileostomy to a K-Pouch, also known as a Continent Ileostomy, is a significant decision for those considering a change in how they manage their ostomy. This involves converting an existing Brooke (end) ileostomy to a K-Pouch, which allows for internal storage of waste and can be emptied at the person's convenience. Here are some insights and advice shared by others who have experience with this procedure:

1. Continent-ileostomy success rate:
- There is some debate about success rates, but generally, K-Pouch and BCIR (Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir) have higher success rates and lower complication rates compared to J-Pouches. Many surgeons still perform these procedures.

2. Surgical staging and hospital stay:
- Unlike the historical three-stage procedures for J-Pouch creation, modern K-Pouch or BCIR surgeries are typically completed in a single operation.
- The usual hospital stay is around 21 days. During this time, the pouch is kept on continuous drainage, and after discharge, patients will self-intubate at home until the pouch stretches.

3. Emptying frequency:
- People with a K-Pouch or BCIR often need to intubate only twice a day, in the afternoon and evening, which generally means fewer bathroom trips compared to a J-Pouch.

4. Pelvic-floor (Kegel) exercises:
- While Kegel exercises are recommended for improving control in some cases, they are not necessary with a K-Pouch since the rectum is removed.

5. Personal preference vs. external appliance:
- Some individuals prefer to keep a conventional ostomy for convenience, as they find emptying a bag more than 10 times a day easier than managing a valve and tube.

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