Ileostomy

New surgical techniques are being used to create what is called a “continent” ileostomy. In these procedures, a portion of the ileum is used to create a pouch with a nipple valve. Pressure from feces entering the pouch causes the valve to close, preventing leakage of gas or feces from the stoma. The pouch can be easily emptied by insertion of a catheter and gravity drainage. Because the pouch is continent, the patient does not need to wear an appliance.