Is there a connection between J-pouch and skin tags?

People that are dealing with gastrointestinal problems may be required to have surgery. One of the most common options in this regard is that of the J-Pouch. This is a surgery that removes part of the intestines and creates a reservoir for stool to stay in and be removed by the body. This is a surgical procedure that can cause certain issues after the fact, including the formation of skin tags near the anus. While this is not a serious issue, it is worth exploring on a closer level to fully understand the problem, and what can be done to remove the issues associated with tags.

What Are Skin Tags?

Tags are formations that come up from the dermis when there’s any sort of irritation. The irritation that is most common with this issue is that of dermis rubbing against itself. Whenever skin rubs against itself, it can cause collagen to be sent into the area, and that can lead to growths. These growths are skin tone, similar to warts, but do not cluster, and do not have any pain. There is no discharge, no bleeding, and they can be mostly cosmetic in nature. The cosmetic element can be uncomfortable if located in sensitive areas, such as the anus, but they traditionally pose no major harm to the body.

What Exactly Is A J-Pouch?

J-Pouch is an ileo-anal pouch that is created through surgery. It’s given to individuals that have ulcerative colitis and must have part of their intestines removed to alleviate the pressure and pain during bowel movements. There are several other pouches that can be created in the body, but these are usually simple reservoirs where stool elimination will be done. Recovery takes a bit of time, and individuals will find that due to the newly formed element, friction may occur in and around the anus. That’s where tags will form, due to the cells having a bit of friction overall.

Removing Skin Tags

Because skin tags may form around or even on the anus, this can be uncomfortable. Removing these things can be difficult due to where it is located, but a doctor can help. When there’s discomfort, visit a doctor and they can remove the tags with a variety of methods. The most common solutions that they use include lancing. They will apply a topical anesthetic, and then cut the tag off completely, without any incident. There should be minimal to now bleeding, and no discomfort or scar tissue.

Another method that is used is that of cryotherapy. This is a solution that uses cold liquid to freeze the element off. It is used for warts as well. In some instances, this may be uncomfortable, so patients may be given a prescription medication to apply to the tag. A cream can be used to apply to the tag in in time it will dry out the core. Once that occurs, the tag will fall off and the issue will not be problematic any more. There is a link between J-Pouch surgery and skin tags, but it’s not permanent or intrusive in many instances.