What is an Ileostomy?

An ileostomy (which is one type of stoma or ostomy) is the result of an operation where part of the ileum (the last section of the small intestine) is brought out onto the surface on the abdomen. This operation is usually done to treat serious, or possibly life threatening, medical conditions such as bowel cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) or injury.

Food waste exits the body via the ileostomy rather than from the anus. This waste is collected in an appliance that is worn on the abdomen, over the ileostomy. These appliances are usually referred to as stoma bags.