I'm thinking about getting an Indiana Pouch

[jrickard]

I had my bladder removed in 2005 (cancer) and had an ostomy. Within a couple of weeks the stoma inverted back into my (fat) stomach and since then I have had a catheter stuck in the conduit and I use a leg bag during the day. This has been pretty good except I leak constantly (I have to wear a Pampers over the hole), I get infections about every 3 -4 weeks. I am considering an Indiana Pouch but I have heard there are many complications that go with the surgery. My doctor says he can do it - no problem - but I'd like to hear from others...With my original surgery I was out of work for 7 weeks! I don't want to stay out that long again if I don't have to (I am a secretary). I know I would save a lot of money on supplies (leg bags, diapers, gauze, etc.) At night, can a bedside bag be used? Any info will be most helpfu. Thank you.

[Lynne]

I'm hoping that Squid will "chime in" here. She's our resident expert on Indiana Pouches !

[Ant]

I am no expert but........
My indiana pouch is the best thing that could of happend to my body!
Before the pouch i had infections over and over and over again, i had problems with holding my bladder and ALWAYS having to go to the restroom, but now (once you get used to it) it seams to give my mind a sence of peace as far as the wondering if my pants are wet or if i will make it to the bathroom in time. I got my pouch 10/16/2006 because of cancer and to tell you the truth it seams to have made my life so much better.
Good luck to you with wathever you decide.

[squid56]

I originally had an ileal conduit too and after 6 years had it converted to an Indiana pouch.For me it was a long surgery and also along recovery, but everyone is different. I would ask your doctor how long he thinks he thinks you be laid up. You will need to be prepared that it takes time to "train" the pouch to hold increasing amounts urine so you will have to follow a strict schedule of cathing it. It is a pain in the beginnning to have to cath at certain times, but if you do what they say, you will get the best outcome. That said, I am so happy with my pouch I would do it all over again in a heart beat! IN the beginning you will need to be hooked up at night to drainage, but in time when the pouch is trained you will be able to sleep through the night and not have to be hooked up to anything. I will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Judith

[Ellen M]

Hi, I had my Indiana pouch surgery March 2, 2007 at Sloan Kettering in New York. I am doing very well. I set my phone alarm and it alerts me that it is time to catherize. I have not had any problems and I am very happy I made this my decision. I also had a hysterctomy at the same time. I catherize every four hours and at nighttime I can let it go for five hours. It is very quick and easy to do I am back in bed in two minutes. If I can be of any assistance please email me. Ellen

[jrickard]

I thank you all for the info on indiana pouch. I have made up my mind to go ahead and do it. I'll be getting a tummy tuck in the process!!! I'm quite overweight and have a horrible "hanging" stomach (where most of my weight is). The doc agreed the IP would do better without all that fat. The plastic surgeon agreed too. So, YEAH!!! My doc said it will be a long surgery but not as long as the origianl one. Keep me in your prayers. Thanks again.

[Imustpee]

I had mine done in Dec 05...the BEST thing I EVER DID!! I have since graduated from college on the Deans Lst and I am currently looking for work...

[blueslover]

jrickard,
I had mine done in Feb of this year. i don't regret it for one second. In fact at dinner to night I proudly annouced to the whole family that I onlt had to pee 3 times today so far!! that was a far cry from 30 or more times! i am estatic over my pouch!!
Blessings & hugs
Eva