A loop ileostomy is when a distal loop of the ileum is brought out to the skin with 2 lumens draining into the stoma bag and is commonly used as a temporary diversion of stool usually to protect a distal anastomosis such as a colonic anastomosis in segmental colonic resections.

How does a loop ileostomy work?

To form a loop ileostomy, a loop of small intestine is pulled out through a cut in your abdomen. This section of intestine is then opened up and stitched to the skin to form a stoma. The colon and rectum are left in place.

When is a loop ileostomy used?

It's usually needed because a problem is causing the ileum to not work properly, or a disease is affecting that part of the colon and it needs to be removed. The end of the ileum (the lowest part of the small intestine) is brought through this opening to form a stoma, usually on the lower right side of the abdomen.