This topic is about understanding the connection between kidney failure and having an ileostomy, especially in people with Crohn’s disease. It also explores what treatment options are available for those facing these challenges.

- People who have had an ileostomy for a long time, often 30 to 50 years or more, sometimes experience recurring kidney stone issues. These stones can be made of uric acid or bacteria and may lead to kidney damage or even failure.

- Urologists explain that the risk of developing kidney stones is higher because, without the colon, the kidneys have to work harder to filter impurities and concentrate urine, which can lead to stone formation.

- To manage these issues, several approaches are suggested:
1. Adjusting the diet and taking prescribed medications to help control high levels of uric acid.
2. Using endoscopic laser lithotripsy to remove stones, which are sometimes about 1.5 cm in size. This procedure is often followed by placing a temporary ureteric stent for about six weeks.
3. Surgically removing bacterial stones that are too putty-like for lithotripsy to be effective.
4. In severe cases where kidney function declines significantly, dialysis might be necessary. This was the case for one member’s spouse during the last year of his life.

- It is important to have regular check-ups with a urologist because kidney failure can happen again, even after stones have been successfully removed.