I’m going with the majority here. If possible, go to a medical center that does 1000’s a year. My local GI doctor was managing my UC medically. I had also been to a GI in NYC for consultation (Dr. Ellen Schrel - love her.) She had us meet with Dr. Bauer to discuss surgery options prior to my not having a choice because I became so sick.
I was in our local hospital for the 5th or 6th time on IV steroids and sick as a dog from UC (very stubborn and didn’t want surgery - I was scared and had four young children ages 5, 3, 3, 3.) I got to the point where it wasn’t a choice. My local GI was pushing for a local surgeon who performed a few of these surgeries each year. There was a GI Fellow who had come from NY prior to his time in our local hospital. I saw him daily. He came in one day and told me to get the hell out of our local hospital and get to Mt. Sinai and Dr. Bauer for the surgery. I was transported by ambulance and operated on the next day. Best decision we made. THANKFULLY, I have a pouch that has never given me any problems, except minor butt burn due to my eating habits but easily solved with calmoseptine cream.
Do what makes you feel comfortable and confident that you will have a good outcome. You will hopefully live with your pouch forever without major issues.
Be well.