This video explains different surgical options, how the procedure is performed, and the aftercare process.
The colon and a section of the small intestine may be removed completely or bypassed during your surgery. The surgeon then brings part of the small intestine through the abdominal wall and creates a new opening through the skin called a stoma. Liquid waste from the small intestine will now be discharged through the stoma and will collect in a pouch that adheres to your skin.
Your ileostomy may be temporary or permanent depending on the medical reason for the surgery. For some people, an ileal reservoir (or ileal pouch) may be an alternative to a permanent ileostomy.
To create an ileal reservoir, the surgeon removes the person's colon and uses the small intestine to create an internal reservoir which is sutured into the pelvis and connected to the person's anus. A person who has an ileal reservoir does not need to use an external ostomy pouch to collect stool. However, a temporary ileostomy may be needed until the reservoir surgery has healed completely.
After ileostomy surgery your stoma will probably be somewhat swollen but it should shrink to the permanent size after a few weeks. Your stoma will not be painful, but will look red and moist and may bleed somewhat especially if it is hit or rocked. Each stoma is unique and chances are your stoma will look different from someone else's. The skin around your stoma should look just like your normal skin with no excessive redness, rashes, or sores.
Remember, the output from the ileostomy comes directly from the small intestine so it contains digestive enzymes that can be very irritating to your skin. The ostomy product you wear must have a skin barrier that fits closely around your stoma to protect your skin. The most important thing you can do to keep your skin healthy is to use ostomy products that fit well, minimize leakage, and stay in place.