The pelvic ileal reservoir: an experimental assessment of its function compared with that of normal rectum

The function of the 3-loop pelvic ileal reservoir as an alternative to total proctocolectomy and ileostomy is assessed experimentally in dogs and compared with normal rectum under identical conditions. No difference was found between the pelvic ileal reservoir and normal rectum in their ability to maintain continence. The efficiency of evacuation, however, is significantly better in normal rectum (P less than 0.01). Observations made over a prolonged period of time suggest that frequency of defecation, tenesmus and incomplete evacuation are persistent problems with an ileal reservoir. The results of the experiments concur with clinical findings that satisfactory continence may be achieved by using the ileal reservoir but that it does not possess the ability of normal rectum to evacuate completely. Hence the frequent need for self-catheterization.