Antibiotic Use Prior to Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis Increases Pouchitis Risk

Researchers found that antibiotic exposure in the 12 months before Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis (IPAA) surgery for ulcerative colitis increased the risk of developing pouchitis in the first 2 years post-surgery. Compared to those without antibiotic prescriptions, patients with 1-2 courses had a 30% increased risk, while those with 3 or more courses had a 77% increased risk. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and appendectomy were not associated with pouchitis risk.