An ileostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the abdominal wall. This allows waste to escape when the colon or rectum can no longer fulfill its role. Although this procedure may seem complex, it offers an effective and essential solution for improving patients' quality of life.
With appropriate medical follow-up, the procedure enables rapid recovery and a return to normal daily life.
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An ileostomy is a surgical procedure that diverts a portion of the small intestine to an opening created in the abdominal wall. This opening becomes the new exit point for stool, temporarily or permanently replacing the natural passage through the rectum.
After the operation, a pouch is attached to the skin at the site of the stoma to collect stool. Since the stoma has no sphincter muscle, bowel movements are continuous and cannot be voluntarily controlled. This is why an external collection system is essential.
This procedure is often recommended for patients suffering from:
Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
Following complex digestive surgeries
Immediately after the operation, the stoma appears red and moist. This is perfectly normal, as the stoma is made up of intestinal mucosa. It may bleed slightly to the touch and follow the movements of the digestive tract. Over the weeks, its shape and size stabilize. The stitches used to secure the stoma resolve on their own, without further intervention.
In general, the stoma becomes functional within 24 hours of surgery. When eating is resumed, gas begins to pass, a sign that the intestine is becoming active again.
Before the operation, an essential step is to identify the ideal position for the stoma. This choice is not made at random. It depends on your anatomy, your lifestyle, the suppleness of your skin, and even the way you hold yourself or dress.
With the support of Turquie Santé, everything is planned in advance to ensure optimal recovery. The medical teams take the time to assess every detail to ensure your comfort and autonomy after the operation. You benefit from a structured care pathway, with a human and personalized approach at every stage.
An ileostomy can be performed in different ways depending on the patient's condition, the extent of intestinal damage, and the goal of the surgery. There are two main types: end ileostomy and loop ileostomy.
This is the most commonly performed type. It involves bringing the end of the small intestine (called the ileum) to the surface of the abdomen, where it is sutured to the skin to create a visible opening called a stoma.
This type of ileostomy can be either temporary or permanent. In its temporary form, it is typically used when the diseased part of the intestine has been removed and the remaining bowel needs time to heal before a potential reconnection of the digestive tract. On the other hand, if reconnection is impossible or too risky, the stoma becomes permanent.
In a loop ileostomy, a loop of the small intestine is brought through an opening in the abdominal wall without being completely severed. This creates two openings side by side: one for the discharge of stool and the other for the possible passage of gas or secretions.
This type of ileostomy is most often temporary. It is used to protect a digestive anastomosis (such as after bowel resection) or to temporarily relieve the intestine. Once healing is achieved, intestinal continuity is usually restored and the stoma is closed in a second surgery.
After an ileostomy procedure, using a drainable pouch is essential for collecting stool. There are two types of systems available:
Changing the pouch is a simple routine to adopt. In general, you will need to empty it 4 to 6 times a day and change the pouch daily. The adhesive barrier can be changed every 2 to 3 days (if you're using a two-piece system).
To empty the pouch, open the clamp over the toilet, let the contents drain out, then close the clamp after cleaning it with toilet paper.
At first, it may seem complicated, but with practice, it becomes an easy routine to manage—especially with the support of your medical team.
Before undergoing an ileostomy, your doctor will advise you to limit consumption of caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and other substances. These products can interfere with the success of the operation and the recovery period. It is important to follow these recommendations to the letter to optimize the results of the operation.
Ileostomy surgery is generally performed using laparoscopic surgical techniques. Rather than making a large incision, surgeons make a small opening through which surgical instruments and a camera are inserted. This method minimizes risks and promotes faster recovery.
After the surgery, you will be hospitalized for monitoring and optimal care. Painkillers and antibiotics may be administered to manage pain and prevent any infection. During your recovery, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
During the first six to eight weeks, certain foods such as raw fruits and vegetables, grains, nuts, and corn should be avoided, as they can irritate the stoma and slow down the healing process.
Finally, it is strongly advised to limit intense physical activity for about four to six weeks to allow your body to fully recover.
After an ileostomy, you can eat many of the same foods. However, you may need to avoid high-fiber or gas-producing foods initially. With guidance from a doctor or dietitian, most people can slowly reintroduce a variety of foods over time.
Having a stoma does not restrict long-term physical activity. After healing, most people can resume exercising, and you may need to adjust your routine slightly.
Yes, an ileostomy can often be reversed through a procedure called ileostomy reversal, which reconnects the intestines. Whether this is possible depends on your health.
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