Choosing Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis: Permanent or Temporary Ileostomy?

I had a subtotal colectomy in 2010 (had 80) of my colon removed but was still connected to the small bowel. The internal stitches did not hold and I ended up in full-blown septic shock and ended up with an ileostomy with hopes of a reversal. I have scleroderma (CREST) and GI problems exist and will exist as this is a progressive autoimmune illness. After I was told I was not a great candidate for reversal, I sort of felt relieved and learned to deal with the bag... I bling it out to be as girly as possible. I was also told a reversal might lead me to other digestion and elimination issues.

I am glad I kept the bag

Please look into a BCIR, which stands for Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir. It is the best operation you can get. If you have any questions, you can message me at MN.

I am curious about the BCIR as I have inquired about it. They said with me having Crohn's I would have to go at least 3 years without any flare-ups, which I have. Please tell me more as I would welcome the opportunity to shed this bag. Thanks. Penguins7

I've had the J pouch made in me and reversal done, and I wish I never did get it. It caused me a lot of grief and extra downtime. The only advice I can give if you do get the J pouch made is to take it super slow and allow it to fully heal before going back to a full diet. Maybe explore a more easily overall digestible diet.