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Understanding Ileostomy

An ileostomy is a surgically created opening in the ileum, the final part of the small intestine, before it joins the large intestine. This procedure is performed when the large intestine is unable to store or pass waste. Depending on the patient’s condition, an ileostomy can be either temporary or permanent. In the case of a temporary ileostomy, an ostomy reversal can be performed later, depending on the initial reason for the ileostomy.

There are two primary types of ileostomy: end and loop, which function similarly. With an ileostomy, the person does not have control over eliminating waste, necessitating the use of a bag at all times. While some ileostomies can be reversed, others are permanent. During a loop ileostomy, the surgeon protects the connection between the intestine and the colon by creating an opening for a loop of small intestine to pass through the abdominal wall. On the other hand, in an end ileostomy, the surgeon brings the very end of the small intestine through the abdominal wall.

Ileostomy Surgery Treats:

Check IconBlocked, damaged, or ruptured large intestines.
Check IconColonic motility dysfunction.
Check Icon Inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerativecolitis or Crohn’s disease (based on severity).

Understanding Ileostomy

An ileostomy is a surgically created opening in the ileum, the final part of the small intestine, before it joins the large intestine. This procedure is performed when the large intestine is unable to store or pass waste. Depending on the patient’s condition, an ileostomy can be either temporary or permanent. In the case of a temporary ileostomy, an ostomy reversal can be performed later, depending on the initial reason for the ileostomy.

There are two primary types of ileostomy: end and loop, which function similarly. With an ileostomy, the person does not have control over eliminating waste, necessitating the use of a bag at all times. While some ileostomies can be reversed, others are permanent.

During a loop ileostomy, the surgeon protects the connection between the intestine and the colon by creating an opening for a loop of small intestine to pass through the abdominal wall. On the other hand, in an end ileostomy, the surgeon brings the very end of the small intestine through the abdominal wall.

Ileostomy Surgery Treats:

Check IconBlocked, damaged, or ruptured large

intestines.
Check IconColonic motility dysfunction.
Check IconInflammatory bowel diseases like

ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease

(based on severity).
 

How Does the Ileostomy Surgery Work?

Ileostomy Surgery in Leicester​

Before your ileostomy surgery, your healthcare provider will provide guidance on how to prepare. This might involve using laxatives or an enema to empty your bowels and fasting before the procedure. The surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia and takes about an hour. Once under anaesthesia, the surgeon will access your abdomen and locate the ileum. Depending on the specific approach, the surgery may be conducted through a large vertical incision on the abdomen or smaller incisions using a thin camera for internal visualisation.

There are mainly two types of ileostomy.

Loop ileostomy

A small incision is made on the right side of your abdomen to create an opening in the small bowel. A loop of the small bowel is then pulled through this opening and secured in place. After the loop is cut and stitched to the skin, two connected stomas are formed – one “active” and the other “inactive.” Waste exits the body through the active stoma, which is linked to the small bowel, while the inactive stoma is connected to the large bowel and may produce mucus. Loop ileostomies are usually temporary, and the colon is not typically removed.

End ileostomy

The surgeon also makes a small incision on the right side of the abdomen to create an opening for the small bowel. The small bowel is separated from the large bowel, and the end of the small bowel is then carried through the opening and secured to the skin, forming the stoma. Waste exits the body through this stoma, and a sticky white or yellow mucus discharge from the rectum is normal. An end ileostomy can be temporary or permanent, and it may involve partial or complete removal of the colon.

Treatment At a Glance

Purpose

Purpose

Ulcerative colitis
Procedure Duration

Procedure Duration

1 Hour
Anaesthesia

Anaesthesia

General

Purpose

Ulcerative colitis

Pain

Procedure Duration

1 Hour

Recovery Time

6-8 weeks

Drive

After 6 weeks

Anaesthesia

General

Recovery Time

Recovery Time

6-8 weeks
Pain

Pain

Drive

Drive

After 6 weeks

Benefits of Ileostomy Surgery

Enhanced Well-Being

A permanent ileostomy can be a life-saving procedure, significantly enhancing your overall quality of life.

Quicker Return to Normal Diet

Small bowel activity resumes swiftly after an ileostomy, allowing you to eat sooner than expected.

Minimal Risk of Complications

Small bowel complications are rare when the stoma is closed, ensuring a safer recovery process.

Symptom Relief

An ileostomy alleviates abdominal pain and effectively reduces symptoms such as diarrhoea and bowel urgency.

Better Digestive Control

Ileostomy offers more predictable digestive patterns, reducing the frequency of bowel movements and related discomfort.

Reduced Risk of Bowel Obstruction

Ileostomy surgery lowers the likelihood of experiencing bowel blockages, a common complication in certain conditions.

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Cost of Ileostomy Surgery

Consultations start at £200. Please request a callback by filling out the contact form. We look forward to assisting you!

Why Choose Leicester Bowel Clinic?

At Leicester Bowel Clinic, we focus on bowel health and conditions, digestive issues, and cancer care. Our clinic offers minimally invasive procedures for bowel problems, ensuring effective results and patient comfort. We aim to provide personalised care for our patients and offer the latest treatments for hernias, bowel conditions and rectal disorders

Our Locations

Leicester Bowel Clinic at Spire Hospital

  • Wednesdays evenings (Mr Runau) from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at: Spire Leicester Hospital Gartree Road Leicester LE2 2FF
  • To arrange an appointment directly with the Spire Leicester Hospital, please call the booking line on 0116 2653685

*Free on-site parking is available.

Meet The Team

Sanjay Chaudhri

Mr Sanjay Chaudhri

Francois Runau

Mr Francois Runau

Pippa Powley

Pippa Powley

Rebecca West

Rebecca West

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Ileostomy Surgery

01. Can you still pee if you have an ileostomy?

With an ileostomy, a pouch is placed inside your abdomen, and your ureters are attached to it. Then, the pouch connects to a stoma on your abdomen. Urine flows from the ureters into the pouch and stays there until you drain it using a catheter inserted into the stoma.

02. Can you still have a bowel movement if you have an ileostomy?

When you have an ileostomy, the stoma becomes the exit for all bowel movements and gas. If you still have your rectum, you might feel the need to have a bowel movement, or you might pass mucus or blood through the anus. This is normal. Some people use a small enema once a week to clean out the rectum.

03. Is getting an ileostomy a major surgery?

Yes, getting an ileostomy is a major surgery and requires some recovery time. It normally takes between six and eight weeks to recover. After surgery, you’ll be on a special soft diet and given a list of foods you can and can’t eat.

04. Is an ileostomy permanent?

An ileostomy might be needed for a short time, maybe for 3 to 6 months, if a part of the colon needs to rest and heal from a problem or disease. Sometimes, if a disease like cancer is serious, an ileostomy might be needed for the rest of a person’s life.

05. Does an ileostomy cause stool to smell?

Your pouch should be sealed well enough to prevent any odour from leaking. You might notice more odour when you empty your pouch after eating certain foods like onions, garlic, broccoli, and fish.

06. Is it possible to live a long life with an ileostomy?

Living with a stoma can be challenging, but it should not limit your life expectancy or quality of life. With proper management and care, it’s possible to live a long, healthy, & fulfilling life despite having an ostomy bag.
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