What Are Different Ostomy Options?

A patient suffering an intestinal condition such as cancer, ulcerative colitis, or Chrohn’s disease might have to undergo the surgical procedure involving the removal of the colon and rectum. This surgical procedure also includes the rerouting of the small intestine towards the abdominal wall to create an opening (stoma) on the belly. This intestinal diversion is known as an ileostomy. This diversion allows waste content to leave the body without proceeding to the bypassed or removed part of the bowel.

An overview of options

Physicians had been looking for a feasible surgical solution for intestinal disorders since the early 1990s. They have been successful by developing different ostomy options until now. In this article, we will discuss those options briefly.

Brooke ileostomy

A Brooke or traditional ileostomy is the one that brings a part of the small intestine out through a cut in the abdomen. The end of the small intestine becomes the stoma that sticks out. It is generally located at the lower right side of the belly. After the creation of the stoma, waste content passes out through it. Because it doesn’t have any sphincters, you are going to have to wear an ostomy bag over it to manage stool evacuations. Having to wear an ostomy bag involves an entirely different kind of waste evacuation regimen.

J-pouch or ileoanal reservoir

Another option to manage stool evacuations after the removal of the colon is the ileoanal reservoir, which is also known as a j-pouch. This option involves the creation of a reservoir by folding the end of the small intestine and suturing the combined sides. The surgeon then makes an incision at the bottom of the reservoir to fit it over the anal canal. This way, you will retain your ability to move bowels naturally. The internal pouch will store wastes until it becomes full.

Continent ileostomy

A continent ileostomy involves the creation of an internal pouch using the tissues from the colon and small intestine. The surgeon will also use a part of the ileum to make a valve. This valve will be used to form a connection between the internal pouch and the abdominal opening. This option gives you total control over when to evacuate waste materials. There are two types of continent ileostomy: Kock pouch and BCIR. A BCIR is an advanced form of the Kock pouch due to the enhanced capacity of the pouch and a collar made of living tissues to secure the valve further. Doctors have been successful in reducing risks of complications by developing this method.

Choosing an option

It is worth mentioning here that not every option is right for everyone. Each of these options has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The doctor will evaluate a patient’s condition before suggesting which option might work well. He will choose an option whose benefits outweigh the pitfalls in a particular case.

Discussing with the doctor before undergoing a colon removal procedure is quite necessary. During this discussion, you can put forward your questions to clear your doubts. It will help you live a healthy life after surgery.