Ileostomy

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An ileostomy is a surgically formed opening into the lower part of the small intestine (the ileum), which is then brought out through the abdominal wall creating a mouth or opening known as a stoma.

There are two types of ileostomy: an end ileostomy and a loop ileostomy.

The end ileostomy is done when the large bowel (colon) and the rectum are removed and the end of the ileum is brought out as a stoma. There is no control over bowel movements and a drainable externally attached bag is used permanently to collect the waste products. The bag is then emptied as often as necessary.

A loop ileostomy is created when a loop of ileum is brought out as a stoma, which directs waste products from the lower part of the bowel; waste products are collected in an externally attached bag. This allows the colon to heal when part of the colon (due to disease or obstruction) is removed and the two ends are joined together. This is usually a temporary stoma and may be closed at a second operation.

An ileo-anal pouch is a reservoir constructed during surgery from the small intestine (ileum) and connected to the sphincter muscles (the muscle that surround the anus; the sphincter allows continence or control over intestinal function); the colon and rectum are removed.