GENERAL INFORMATION:

What is an Ileostomy?

An ileostomy is the result of a surgery in which the lower part of the small intestines( the ileum) is brought through the abdomen.  An opening is made in the abdominal wall and a stoma is formed.  The stoma is usually found on the lower right side of the abdomen.  Stool is then drained from the ileum to the outside of the body into an appliance or pouch.  After surgery the stool will have a soft and sometimes liquid consistency.  An appliance is flat in appearance and attaches to the skin with adhesive to secure the pouch to the skin.

An ileostomy is often need for patients with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, cancer, trauma, and other diseases.  Ileostomies are sometimes created after the large intestine(colon) has been removed.  Ileostomies are also sometimes done on a temporary to semi-temporary basis.

What is the small intestine and where is it located?

The digestive system is made up of the parts of the body that digest food and absorb nutrients.  After food leaves your stomach, it travels to the small intestine.  Nutrients are then absorbed through the small intestine.  Food moves on to the colon where water is absorbed and stool is created.  After surgery, some patients may have had some of their small intestines removed.  The small intestine is about 3-4 meters in length.  The minimum length of small intestines needed is not clearly known but patients have lived with as little as 3 feet of intestines.

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