Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026
Catheterization of Intestinal Loops in Ruminants
Published on: June 11, 2009
The unopened loop ileostomy
Objective:
A defunctioning loop ileostomy is often fashioned to protect distal colorectal anastomoses, with the aim of limiting the effect of any breakdown that may occur. However, its creation and subsequent closure may be associated with significant morbidity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the alternative use of an unopened loop ileostomy.
Patients And Methods:
Patients undergoing colorectal resection and distal anastomosis were given an unopened loop ileostomy instead of a conventional ileostomy. Any complications associated with the stoma and ease of closure were recorded for each patient.
Results:
Complications occurred in seven (58%) of the 12 patients included in the study. Replacement of the ileal loop was difficult in five patients, one patient developed a wound abscess and pseudomembranous colitis, and a further patient had a persistent post-operative pyrexia of unknown cause.
Conclusion:
Despite the theoretical advantages of an unopened loop ileostomy, the results of this small study do not support the routine use of such a stoma as an adjunct to high risk colorectal anastomoses.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
01:24Ostomy Care
An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an artificial opening from the intestines to the outside of the body, allowing for the rerouting of effluent. This opening is known as a stoma. A stoma usually protrudes above the skin surface, appearing pink or red, moist, and round, and it lacks nerve sensations.
There are different types of ostomies, including colostomies, ileostomies, and urostomies:
01:29Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction
01:09Large Intestine
The ileocecal sphincter, a mucous membrane fold, guards the opening from the ileum to the large intestine. This valve permits material from the small intestine to pass into the large intestine. Attached to the ileocecal valve is the cecum. This small pouch, approximately 6 cm long, has a twisted, coiled tube known as...