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Colitis, Polyps, Possible Cancer, and Surgery

Mon, October 06, 2008 12:00 AM

I was diagnosed with UC in 1998. I was put on steroids then Immuran and Asacol. Other than one hospitalization, and an occasional mild flare up, the UC was well controlled for a number of years. I recently underwent a colonoscopy and the findings were mild chronic ulcerative colitis, 5 aplastic adenomatous polyps were found ranging from 5mm to 8mm in size. There is a family history of colon polyps and colon cancer. It was recommended that I consider a colectomy. I may be a candidate for ileal pouch-anal anastomosis or ileal rectal anastomosis. I was also told that I could put this off and get regular screenings (colonoscopies) every 3 to 6 months instead. It is felt that I may have up to a 50% chance of getting colon cancer with all considered if I dont have the surgery. I am having a tough time making a decision. On one hand, the surgeon tells me that my "bathroom" habits will worsen after surgery and that all in all my quality of life may decline. On the other hand, I dont relish the thought of the "cancer hatchet" hanging over my head. Has anyone else been in this situation? Can anyone please tell me what their quality of life was like after either of these surgeries? I work as a manager in a high stress field and am not sure how my job will be affected either. Thank you to anyone who can give me some insight.

rmg
Joined Oct 6, 2008

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