When is a j-pouch needed?

Occassionally: J pouch is considered to replace the colon that may have to be removed for disease such as ulcerative colitis or crohn's . It is an extensive operation. Not to be taken lightly.

After removal of the: Entire colon and rectum. Many years ago people with diseases such as ulcerative colitis and familial polyposis required removal of the entire colon and rectum and needed an ostomy - a bag on th skin to collect stool. Now we can create a j-pouch to create a reservoir to allow function without an external bag.