Learning Ostomy

Question:

Hi there, I have a j-pouch, but have been having some big problems (and big pain) with an anal fissure for the past month that hasn’t been healing. Two weeks ago I had a bit of surgery on fissure to try and make it heal quicker, which didn’t work. A couple of days ago the doc injected a steroid and an local anaesthetic into the raw area to see if that would do the trick. Things got better for a few days and now they are worsening again. I am thinking the cause of the raw area might have something to do with my previous UC. If so, I’m wondering if anyone out there has had similar problems with their UC and have found traditional or alternative methods that have worked to get them better. Many thanks, Mark. Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

Response:

Dear Mark, I also had anal fistulas which refused to heal up.  I had a miserable year until finally I had a temporary ileostomy to rest my pouch and anus. Pouchitis and uc in the rectum was the cause.  I subsequently had a reversal which went wrong.  I can give you the whole story if you wish but I’m afraid it is not a good one.  I opted to keep an ileostomy.  I had an end ileostomy and I am so glad I made that choice.  I am very well and have been for 15 months now with no problems.  I had my pouch removed and my rectal stump in one go and things just got better and better.  I would hate to have to go through the pain and discomfort of fissures again and I am sorry that you are in that situation.  I hope you get it sorted.  Good luck. Lesley

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