Hi Cindy,
I've had my K pouch since 1979 and moved to Europe in 1983.
I have never had a K pouch surgeon here to do the work and revisions. I was either at home or flew home when I did need them urgently.
For the 'easy stuff' like scopes, hernias, blockages, bowel twists etc I have a general surgeon who knew nothing about K pouches but was very open to learning. He did a tandem on me when he invited my K pouch surgeon to fly in for emergency surgery and learned a bit about my anatomy while inside.
Since then, 2012 I think, he has removed my gallbladder, fixed numerous hernias, liberated a loop of adhered bowel, and just recently removed a cyst on my liver and cut some adhesions.
I get repeat blockages and like you, treat them as well as I can (yes, I also eat the wrong foods in excess...right now, it is popcorn!) but I know that I have a safe and strong team behind me just in case.
He has done many J pouches via celioscopy (laparoscopy) which is his specialty and has learned to adapt.
I know that not many surgeons are willing to jump the fence and learn a new specialty later in life but there are some good ones out there...so do not panic...just ask if they are willing to keep you on as a special patient for the small stuff.
Sharon