Reconstruction After Anus Is Removed Because Of Rectal Cancer

Has anyone heard of a procedure where they reconstruction your intenstents to form a "new" anus for rectal cancer patients that have a permanent cologomasty bag.

thanks

I read about a docotor at Sloan-Kettering that is working on research but I havent heard anything for sure.  My hubby is having his anus removed in 2 weeks though so I am going to keep looking.  I do have a friend though that advised against it due to the fact that inorder to get anything artificial or transplanted you have to take antirejection meds which might not be great for a cancer survivor to take.  Have you had your anus removed?

Mel 

I had anus and rectum removed Feb.2006, resulting in a permanent colostomy.  You'll find lots of information on reattachment or synthetic sphincters on the UOAA forum site (United Ostomy Assoc of America) and in the archives.  While I am not a candidate for this kind of procedure, it seems to have worked well for some - lots to consider. 

Good Luck!    Martha 

How come you are not a candidate if you don't mind me asking?  Is there something we should keep in mind or talk to the Dr about prior to my husband's removal? Thanks so much for referraal to that information . I will check it out.

Mel 

OMG thank you so much for mentioning this.  We are heading to Sloan Kettering on Monday.  I hadnt looked at the trials since early February and if it wasnt for this thread I might not have.  My hubby might have a chance at a more normal life.

Mel 

OMG thank you so much for mentioning this.  We are heading to Sloan Kettering on Monday.  I hadnt looked at the trials since early February and if it wasnt for this thread I might not have.  My hubby might have a chance at a more normal life.

Mel

 I haven't heard of a procedure that exists as you define it but I know of some patients who have had reconstruction with what is left of the rectum ( if there is any left) and providing there is enough left.My doctor advised me since I was experiencing more 'liquid' stools than not ( in spite of my diet) that I would probably have the same problem if I were reconstructed ( and then the runny stool would pose a problem) Can anyone say "Diaper-time" It was probably better to collect this problematic waste in a bag than a diaper. He also said that since there was only about a thumbs length of rectum left it would prove to be a VERY difficult reconstruction if attempted which he strongly advised against. I originally looked forward to any reconstruction until I talked to this new surgeon ( the surgeon who did the resection retired this year). There was no mention of any other alternatives like rebuilding the anal canal, so I assumed that that was not an option, or at least one that I could afford.

So I have learned to accept it as it is. The good thing is I don't have to sit on toilets any more, and I save a little on toilet paper (although I use more paper towels) 

On 5/11/2007 Nanjvd wrote:

Has anyone heard of a procedure where they reconstruction your intenstents to form a "new" anus for rectal cancer patients that have a permanent cologomasty bag.

 

thanks