Ileostomy surgery involves bringing a part of your small intestine called the ileum to the surface of your abdomen to form an ostomy. It is typically needed in cases where the large intestine is diseased, and it is usually created on the right-hand side of your abdomen.
An ileostomy can be either temporary or permanent, depending on the reason for the surgery or the severity of the illness.
Stool in this part of the intestine is generally more liquid and will need to be collected in a pouching system.
What is an end ileostomy?
The most common ileostomy is an end ileostomy, where the end of the small intestine (ileum) is brought out through a small opening in the abdominal wall, and then attached to the skin of the abdomen creating an opening (ostomy).
An end ileostomy can be either permanent or temporary
A temporary ileostomy remove solution is relevant in situations where the diseased part of the bowel has been removed and the remaining part needs to heal before the ends are joined together.
A permanent ileostomy solution is chosen in situations where it is too risky or not possible to re-join the two parts of the intestine.
What is a loop ileostomy?
In a loop ileostomy a loop of the small intestine in place of bowel is brought out above the level of the skin. A cut halfway through is then made on the exposed loop of intestine forming two openings, which are then rolled down and sewn onto the skin.
The loop ileostomy is typically temporary and performed to protect a surgical joint in the intestine or to relieve symptoms.
