Evolving technique for continent ileostomy: valveless pouch design

A continent ileostomy, or Kock pouch, is a useful option for patients with inflammatory bowel disease whose only alternative is an end ileostomy. This technique has a high morbidity rate. Nipple valve slippage is the most common complication, causing incontinence or intubation problems. A novel, valveless continent ileostomy technique is described here. A porcine model was used to create the continent ileostomy. Two pouches were created and tested for integrity and continence using lactated Ringer's solution. Pouch pressure and volume were recorded in one pouch. The valveless continent ileostomy was successfully created twice, and both pouches were continent. An intraluminal pressure of 30 mmHg and a volume of 225 ml were measured in one pouch. In this preliminary report of a valveless continent ileostomy, we had promising results. The future of this technique in clinical practice needs to be addressed with further studies.