Types of Ileostomy Procedures and Possible Risks

The discomfort and other complications of chronic gastrointestinal conditions can radically alter the lives of people with these health issues. Every year, thousands of people undergo ileostomy surgeries that require altering a basic bodily function most of us take for granted.

1. What is Ileostomy

The ileum is located in the third part of the small bowel, the part responsible for the digestion of nutrients, absorption of essential vitamins, fats and salts, and some immune system functions. A surgeon performs an ileostomy by cutting an opening, called a stoma, in the abdomen and bringing the ileum through it. In most cases, the feces expelled is collected outside of the body instead of going down the colon to the rectum.