The topic at hand is about exploring the Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir (BCIR) or K-Pouch as alternatives to a conventional ostomy, which typically involves wearing an external bag. The person interested in this option currently has a colostomy and is curious about the possibility of living without an external appliance. Here are some key points and insights related to this topic:

- The BCIR procedure is performed at specific locations, such as the Palms of Pasadena Hospital in Florida, but the person is interested in knowing if it's available elsewhere. There are other centers in the U.S., like those in San Diego and the Cleveland Clinic, that offer similar procedures, although only a few surgeons specialize in them.

- Insurance coverage and cost savings are important considerations, as the procedure could potentially eliminate the need to purchase pouches, wafers, and other supplies.

- The person is interested in regaining control over bowel movements, avoiding leaks or blowouts, and eliminating the need for a visible bag.

- A nurse from the BCIR program mentioned that the procedure is typically for ileostomy patients and uses small-bowel tissue, which might exclude those with a colostomy. However, the person is open to having their colon removed if necessary.

- They are also curious about whether a K-Pouch is essentially the same as a BCIR and why having a colostomy might exclude them from being a candidate.

- The procedure involves creating an internal reservoir from about 18 inches of the small intestine, with a one-way nipple valve that is catheterized several times a day.

- The surgery usually requires a hospital stay of about six days and takes around four hours to perform. Recovery can be challenging, with full healing taking four to six months and some temporary activity restrictions.

- Once healed, many report a significant improvement in quality of life, with no external bag, no skin irritation, and the ability to manage bowel emptying on their own schedule.

- Long-term users of the K-Pouch have described the surgery as a life-changing decision, with the initial recovery period being worth the daily benefits.

- Those transitioning from a Brooke ileostomy often experience relief from issues related to external appliances and feel a return to a more "normal" life.

- There is a supportive community of continent-ostomy users who encourage thorough research and offer personal guidance to those considering this option.