Understanding Ileostomies: Types, Procedures, and Recovery

Ileostomies are surgical procedures that involve the removal of a portion of the small intestine (ileum) and the creation of an opening in the abdominal wall to allow for the passage of stool. This type of surgery is typically performed to treat conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, or other injuries to the intestines.

There are several types of ileostomies, including:

1. End ileostomy: This is the most common type of ileostomy, where the end of the small intestine is brought through the abdominal wall and attached to the skin as an opening for stool to pass through.
2. Loop ileostomy: In this procedure, a loop of small intestine is formed into a pouch and brought through the abdominal wall, creating a stoma (opening) for stool to pass through.
3. J-pouch ileostomy: This type of ileostomy involves the creation of a pouch from the small intestine that is attached to the rectum, allowing for some degree of continence and eliminating the need for a permanent ostomy bag.
4. Ileal reservoir ileostomy: In this procedure, a portion of the small intestine is removed and a pouch is created to store stool, which can then be emptied through a stoma or into a colostomy bag.

Ileostomies are typically performed under general anesthesia and may require a hospital stay of several days to a week. After the surgery, patients will need to care for their ostomy bag and follow a special diet to ensure proper healing and minimize complications.