An ileostomy is a surgically created opening in the ileum, the distal part of the small intestine. This part of the ileum is brought through the abdominal wall to form a stoma. Ileostomies can be either temporary or permanent and may involve the removal of all or part of the colon. Typically, an ileostomy is located on the lower part of the right side of the abdomen.
Ileostomies are performed to treat various conditions of the intestines. They provide an alternative route for waste elimination, bypassing the colon and rectum. The decision to create an ileostomy depends on the specific medical needs of the patient.
Temporary Ileostomies: A temporary ileostomy may be recommended for patients undergoing bowel surgery, such as the removal of a segment of the bowel. This type of ileostomy allows the intestines to heal without the stress of normal digestion, ensuring a better recovery process.
Permanent Ileostomies: Permanent ileostomies are necessary in more severe cases where a long-term solution is required. This can be due to extensive disease, irreparable damage to the intestines, or the need for a complete bypass of the colon.
Chronic Ulcerative Colitis: Chronic ulcerative colitis is a significant disease of the large intestine, often requiring surgical treatment for patients who do not respond to medical therapy. A common treatment option is a total colectomy with ileal pouch anastomosis and a temporary ileostomy.
Other Conditions: Other conditions that may require an ileostomy include bowel obstructions, cancer of the colon and/or rectum, congenital bowel defects, and injuries to the intestinal tract. In these cases, an ileostomy helps manage symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.