J-Pouch surgery

[Isabelle1963]

No question being posted here, just thought i'd share.  My Boyfriend had ulcerative colitis for 7 long years and eventually became steroid dependent.  His gastro doctor recommended him to get the remicaid treatment without any guarentees, as it isn't certain that it works for everyone.  I felt uneasy about it since i didn't know much about it, and it seemed like i was brushed off when asked.  [Since i'm not married to him, i don't believe they wanted to get into his medical info with me due to hippa policy].  Anyway, in Feb 08 he went into the hospital for steroid iv's due to another flare up and was severely inflamed again.  We discussed it, and during his colonoscopy, they found a growth that was benign [fortunately], and i convinced him to check out the J-pouch surgery.  it sounded MUCH better because it completely elimated his area that was ulcerated.  So he had the surgery and has an ileostomy pouch with is temporary and next month in April he will have his reconnective surgery.  People, he is ALREADY living much much better!  If you ever are considering Remicaid over Surgery,  please investigate, it is my understanding [after the surgery], that if he had gotten the Remicaid it acts like Chemo and knocks your immune system down to zip.  One doctor admitted to my Significant other that in fact he had two patients that died from something simple as a Sinus infection because there was no immunity built up.  RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH!!! Ask for several opinions, and last of all, go with your gut feeling!!  I did and it paid off BIG TIME!!  Good luck to any and all and God Bless

Isabelle

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
Infliximab ( Remicade) , though very effective in IBD especially in Crohn's, is a toxic drug.
It can cause hypersensitivity reactions ( rash, fever, muscle pain, joint pain) and predisposes to various infections like varicella zoster, candida, tuberculosis etc.

But every one should understand that IBD is due to inflammation and the medications used are of two categories - anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs.

So not just Remicade, but all the drugs in that group do cause various similar side effects.

Surgeries on the other hand have their own complications.

So one should discuss in detail with their doctor before starting the treatment.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.