Changing a Loop Stoma to an End Stoma: Procedure and Location

Hi,

Does anyone know how the surgeon changes a loop stoma to an end stoma? I currently have a loop ileostomy. Do they use the same spot on the abdomen to change it?

I don't know specific details, but in my three-step process to a j-pouch, I started with an end ileo on my right side, had the j-pouch created, and went to a loop ileo (same location) during my second surgery. Then I had my third surgery, which was a reversal. For my fourth surgery, my j-pouch removal, my permanent end ileo was put on my left side. Maybe end to loop can be in the same spot, but loop to end moves to another?

I think it depends on the surgeon and whether or not there is limited scar tissue for them to use the same ostomy site. I have had two temporary ileostomies and was fortunate enough for them to use the same site, but I am about to undergo a permanent ileostomy, so I will have real-time experience very soon.

Have you checked with your stoma nurse or surgeon?

I have a loop stoma that is actually an end stoma, sort of. I started with a loop ileostomy, and then when we decided to make it permanent and remove my colon, the surgeon was going to give me a new end stoma. My understanding was that he would create a new stoma by pulling out another bit of my ileum and removing the existing stoma, and create a new one in the same spot. I asked him if this was necessary or if I could just keep the existing stoma. He said I could. I figured less work for him and less chance of the new one not working out or making more scar tissue, etc. I'm happy I made that decision, as I've heard lots of stories of ostomates with scar tissue from multiple surgeries having problems getting a good seal and constant leaks.

Terry

My surgeon has told me that I can stay with a loop ileostomy. I was sent for an MRI and pouchoscopy recently. He will go over my results at my next appointment next month. My GI doctor says an end stoma is better, but it is up to my surgeon.

My Ostomy Journey: Keyla | Hollister

Why is this happening? Is the pouch being disconnected?

I have a disconnected jpouch. I have a loose stoma. I think I'm staying this way. I went for a pouchoscopy the other day, and all looked good with it. I can never go back to the jpouch due to the fistulas and abscesses I had last year; that is why I have a stoma now. I was just asking if I were to have my stoma changed to an end stoma, would it be placed in the same spot? I'll ask my surgeon next month.

In case you didn't see the other post ..

People don't choose these things; the doc usually drives the process. Why they go to an end ileo, I don't know. Perhaps if there is nothing south of the ileo, it needs to be secured for some reason: blood supply, possible leak, who knows? I have a disconnected J pouch, meaning sealed at the ileo but all still intact with a loop ileo with the second hole closed. I asked my surgeon why he did it this way. He said you never know what will happen in the future and that extra length on the end could be crucial one day. Works for me.

I pretty much have the same as you: a disconnected jpouch and loop ileostomy. I have two holes. How does the surgeon close one of the holes?

Do you have a fistula? I still have one. I underwent seton placement and a fistulotomy last year, and it is still there. Does it stay forever?

No, no fistula for me.

I don't know how it was closed; I was unconscious 😂

Actually, I didn't even know he had done it until I discovered it later, but there is a staple slightly protruding from that exact area...

I ditched the pouch because of pouchitis and cuffitis; it was a disaster.