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How an ileostomy is created 

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In an ileostomy operation, part of your small bowel (ileum) is brought to the surface of your abdomen to form a stoma (opening). An ileostomy is usually made on the right hand side of your abdomen, but may in some circumstances be on the left hand side. Read more about what a stoma looks and feels like.
 
There are two different types of ileostomy surgery: end ileostomies and loop colostomies.

End ileostomy
Ileostomy just after operation

Ileostomy - just after operation

An end ileostomy is made when part of your large bowel (colon) is removed and the end of your small bowel is brought to the surface of the abdomen to form a stoma.

An end ileostomy can be temporary or permanent. It is often made in cases where the end part of the small bowel is diseased.

The most frequent types of end ileostomy operations are:
  • total colectomy
  • pan-proctocolectomy
Ileostomy

Loop ileostomy
Ileostomy - some time after operation

Ileostomy - some time after operation

In a loop ileostomy, a loop of the small bowel is lifted above skin level and held in place with an ostomy rod. A cut is made on the exposed bowel loop, and the ends are then rolled down and sewn onto the skin. In this way, a loop ileostomy actually consists of two stomas (double-barrelled stoma) that are joined together.

The loop ileostomy is typically temporary and may be closed or reversed in a later operation.

The most frequent type of loop colostomy is restorative proctocolectomy.
Ileostomy loop

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