What is an Ileostomy?

• An ileostomy is a surgical opening in the abdominal cavity that involves bringing a small portion of the small intestine, usually near the ileum, outside of the abdominal wall.
  
  Bodily wastes are excreted through the ileostomy, which can be permanent or temporary. In some ileostomies, all or part of the colon is removed.
  
  

J-Pouch

• A common alternative to the traditional ileostomy, this procedure involves the removal of the colon and rectum. A pouch is formed out of the ileum and is then attached to the anus so that the sphincter muscles, which control the passage of bowel movements, can make the person mostly continent. This procedure is also called the ileal pouch anal anastomosis, or IPAA.
  
  

Kock Pouch

• Another version of the ileostomy, a reservoir is made from the ileum and is kept inside the body. A small valve is created in this pouch and a stoma, or piece of the tissue, is brought to the outside of the abdomen.
  
  A catheter tube is then installed and removed several times throughout the day to drain feces from the pouch.
  
  

Reasons

• Patients require ileostomies during the presence of some kinds of cancers, usually of the colon or intestine. Diseases like Crohn's, ulcerative colitis and, in some cases, paralyzation can indicate the need for an ileostomy.
  
  

Other Indications

• Ileostomies can also be performed temporarily on patients undergoing treatment for certain digestive diseases or who need surgery to repair crucial parts of their digestive systems, such as the anus or sphincter muscles.