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I have a serious pelvic floor/scar tissue problem that shuts off the 'evacuation' route from my pouch to the point where I can't empty it (on the toilet, anyway...).  I have this spot on the right of my anus inside that just shuts the 'route' off completely (fyi - I don't have a cuff).  I'm completely miserable.  I've done some PT therapy tricks that aren't working and am working to dilate a bit more, because there is a little bit of a stricture and I also have an anal fissure in that spot.  I'm going to a pelvic floor specialist, but I need to find a way to empty this pouch in a way other than what I have to do right now, which is horrible.

I've been thinking that a catheter might work.  There are continent ostomies that use these.  Has anyone had to catetherize their pouch before to get it emptied?  If so, what did you use and how did it go?  I have a fairly new surgeon because my original one has retired.  I'm not impressed and looking for another one...  I don't think he has a lot of experience with pouches.  I've had my pouch for 24 years...

Thanks for any advice!!

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@Jess623 posted:

I had the same issue and my surgeon told me the anastomoses (connection of the pouch to the rectum) was only open 30%. So basically an anal stricture. He did a dilation (under anesthesia) to open it up more. Now I have to use dilators once a day for a month to keep it from returning back to the 30% opening. Hope this helps.

Hi - glad to hear you're doing better.  I'm already dilating my stricture but I have severe pelvic floor dysfunction that's blocking the exit - not the stricture.  I was asking specifically about using catheters, rather than dilators.  But thanks for your reply.

@RLC posted:

I, too, have severe pelvic floor dysfunction and was shown how to use a catheter. I have had two intestinal blockages this year because of this.  I am making sure every day to do the exercises/relaxation exercises to keep things flowing in order to stay out of hospital. Very frustrating at times for sure.

I'm sorry to hear that you have this problem, as well!  I'm back in PT again, but it's not helping, so I'm looking at other options like injections, etc. with a referral to GYN.  My pouch doesn't like the catheter at all...  Frustrating is putting it mildly, for sure!  Stay well!!

@TraceyH posted:

I'm sorry to hear that you have this problem, as well!  I'm back in PT again, but it's not helping, so I'm looking at other options like injections, etc. with a referral to GYN.  My pouch doesn't like the catheter at all...  Frustrating is putting it mildly, for sure!  Stay well!!

I am sorry the catheters are not working Tracey! I hope you do not need a bag again but if you do, I am sure you will be resilient with your ostomy if you need one Have you tried that step stool??? Or enemas???

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