Restorative proctocolectomy with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) was first described by Parks and Nicholls in 1978. 1 In their first description, IPAA was performed along with a mucosal proctectomy and a hand-sewn anastomosis, with the ileal reservoir created in a triple-loop (S) pouch configuration. Since that time, the technique has been further developed and refined. In the current era, mucosectomy has been largely abandoned and the most commonly performed IPAA procedure is the creation of a double loop stapled "J-shaped" pouch, with the creation of a stapled anastomosis between the reservoir and the rectum. 2,3 IPAA nowadays remains the optimal surgical procedure for patients with chronic ulcerative colitis (UC) and patients with familial adenomatous polyposis. This operation offers excellent quality of life for the majority of patients with a durable surgical and functional result, avoiding the need for a permanent ileostomy with its attendant potential effects on social, physical, psychological, and sexual areas. Nevertheless, IPAA is associated with several pouch-related complications that challenge both surgeon and patient. Reasons for pouch failure include infection, mechanical or functional difficulties, and complications of Crohn disease (CD) when this develops. Therefore, it is critical that thoughtful consideration and judgment be utilized in preparing, planning, and performing IPAA surgery to achieve optimal results.The aim of this review is to provide a structured approach to the challenges that surgeons and physicians encounter in the management of intraoperative, postoperative, and reoperative problems associated with IPAA surgery so as to minimize the occurrence of pouch failure and also to discuss the management of the poorly functioning or failed pouch.
Intraoperative ChallengesThe first hurdle to overcome in IPAA surgery revolves around the need to surmount certain intraoperative difficulties such as the failure of the pouch to reach and the technical aspects of performing the IPAA.