The pouch as an alternative to permanent ileostomy

Restorative proctocolectomy has become a realistic alternative to construction of a permanent stoma for patients with ulcerative colitis and familial polyposis coli. The operation restores intestinal continuity but continent patients have to open their bowels 4-5 times during the day, and over half have to rise at night to defaecate. The potential complications are considerable, but their frequency decreases with experience with the operation. This article reviews the place and results of ileoanal pouch anastomosis.