In an ileostomy operation, a part of your small intestine called the ileum is brought to the surface of your abdomen to form the ostomy. It is typically made in cases where the large intestine is diseased, and it is usually made on the right-hand side of your abdomen.
An ileostomy can be either temporary or permanent depending on the reason for surgery or the severity of the illness.
Stools in this part of the intestine are generally fluid and, because an ostomy has no muscle to control defecation, faeces will need to be collected in a pouch.
What is end ileostomy?
The most common ileostomy is an end ileostomy, where the end of the small intestine (ileum) is brought out through a small cut in the abdominal wall, and then stitched to the skin of the stomach creating an opening (ostomy).
An end ileostomy can be either permanent or temporary
The temporary solution is relevant in situations where the diseased part of the bowel has been removed and the remaining part needs to rest before the ends are joined together.
The permanent solution is chosen in situations where it is too risky or not possible to re-join the two parts of the intestine.
What is loop ileostomy?
In a loop ileostomy a loop of the small bowel is brought out above skin level. A cut half through is then made on the exposed bowel loop 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. If temporary, it will be closed or reversed in a later operation.
