When Not to Pouch: Important Considerations for Patient Selection for Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the preferred surgical treatment for patients who undergo colectomy and wish to avoid a permanent ileostomy. The overall outcomes are positive, with an improved quality of life and stable long-term pouch retention. However, certain conditions or disease states may be at a higher risk of pouch dysfunction or failure. For example, obese patients have an increased risk for postoperative complications. In addition, women with a history of obstetric complications and elderly patients with a history of sphincter damage or dysfunction may be at an increased risk for postoperative incontinence, although quality-of-life indices do not necessarily correlate with incontinence scores. Advanced age itself is not a contraindication to pouch surgery, and elderly patients can be considered for IPAA based on individual functionality and comorbidities. Pelvic radiation may lead to pouch dysfunction. Finally, patients with Crohn's disease and indeterminate colitis may have increased complications with IPAA, but highly specific patient selection leads to good rates of pouch retention. This article examines several clinical scenarios that require careful thought prior to considering IPAA.