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What is an ILEOSTOMY 
An ileostomy is where the small bowel (small intestine) is diverted through an opening in the tummy (abdomen).
The opening is known as a stoma. A special bag is placed over the stoma to collect waste products that usually pas through
the colon (large intestine) and out of the body through the rectum and back passage (anus).
Ileostomy procedures are relatively common in the UK more than 9000 are carried out each year in England.

When is an ileostomy needed?
Ileostomies are formed to either temporary or permanently stop the digestive waste passing through the full length of the
small intestine or colon.

There are a number of reasons why this may be necessary including:
• To allow the small intestine or colon to heal after its been operated on:
eg If a section of bowel has been removed to treat bowel cancer
• To relieve inflammation of the colon, people with Crohns disease or ulcerative colitis
• To allow for complete surgery to be carried out on the anus or rectum

There are two main types of ileostomy. 
Loop ileostomy, where a loop of the small intestine is pulled out through a cut (incision) in your abdomen, before being opened
up and stitched to the skin to form a stoma.
 
End ileostomy, where the ileum is separated from the colon and is brought through the abdomen to form a stoma.
 
Alternatively, it’s sometimes possible for an internal pouch to be created that connects to your anus (ileo anus pouch).
This means there is no stoma and stools are passed out through your back passage in a similar way to normal End ileostomies
and ileo-anal pouches are usually permanent, Loop ileostomies are usually intended to be temporary and can be reversed during
an operation at a later date.

Medical Advice
For any medical advice also ask your specialist nurse or GP.