An ostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating a new opening in the body for the discharge of waste. You may need this procedure if you have a chronic illness, such as ulcerative colitis or familial polyposis. Three basic ostomy options are available for patients today: the Brooke Ileostomy, Ileoanal J-pouch and the Continent Ileostomy.
The Brooke Ileostomy, which may also be called a conventional ileostomy, requires the removal of the entire colon and rectum. This surgery was created in the 1950s and is one of the oldest options available. With this option, you must wear an external appliance that will collect waste until you are ready to dispose of it.
This ostomy option requires removal of the colon and part of the rectum. However, with this option, the lowest part of the rectum and the anal sphincter are not removed. The surgeon uses the small intestine to create a pouch, which is connected to the anal canal. With the J-pouch, you will be able to have normal bowel movements without the need for extra equipment.
Unfortunately, the J-pouch has a failure rate ranging from 5 to 15 percent. In addition, this option is not appropriate for all patients.
As with the conventional ileostomy, the continent ileostomy requires the removal of the diseased colon and rectum. The surgeon then creates an internal ileostomy using the patient’s own intestine. This internal ileostomy consists of a pouch and a valve that is connected to a stoma (opening) in your skin. With this type of ostomy, no waste or gas will be released from your stoma until you place a catheter in to drain the pouch.
Two different types of continent ileostomies can be performed: the Koch pouch and the Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir, or BCIR. Although the Koch pouch has been available for a longer period of time, the BCIR offers several improvements to the Koch pouch that can improve patient outcomes. As a result, many patients choose this option.
If you are interested in learning more about your ostomy options, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We will be happy to help you make the best choice for your future.