Randomized, controlled trial to compare the J-pouch and W-pouch configurations for ulcerative colitis in the...

Proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis has become the procedure of choice for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Functional results may differ with different pouch designs. This randomized study aimed to evaluate the relative effectiveness of two-limb J and four-limb W reservoir designs in the so-called maturation period after ileostomy closure.

Twenty-four patients underwent ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis. Eleven were randomly assigned to the J-pouch group and 13 to the W-pouch group. Frequency of defecation and other functional data were collected at 4, 8, and 12 months after ileostomy closure. Maximum tolerated volume was assessed in the same period by a latex balloon inflated with water. Maximum resting anal pressure, maximum voluntary contraction, and the rectoanal inhibitory reflex were assessed in the preoperative period and at 4, 8, and 12 months after ileostomy closure.

Frequency of defecation decreased from 4 to 12 months after ileostomy closure in both groups (P = 0.04), but patients with a W-pouch had significantly lower values than patients with J-pouches (P < 0.01). Night-time defecation (P = 0.04) and use of antidiarrheals (P = 0.04) were significantly lower for patients with a W-pouch. Maximum tolerated volume was greater in the W-pouch group throughout the whole period (P = 0.01). Maximum resting anal pressure, maximum voluntary contraction, and rectoanal inhibitory reflex did not differ between the study arms.

Patients with W-pouch have better functional results than those with J-pouches in the "maturation period" after ileostomy closure.