Ileocecal valve-preserving ileostomy after total proctocolectomy--a novel technique for ileostomy.

Background: Although ileoanal anastomosis has become popular for ulcerative colitis, in an emergency situation patients must undergo ileostomy.

Aim: A novel ileocecal valve-preserving ileostomy procedure was devised to reduce high output liquid loss.

Method: After total colectomy, the ascending colon was clamped and the terminal ileum and ileocecal valve were isolated from the cecum by dissection. The ileum was then brought out through a conventional ileostomy opening in the abdominal wall.

Results: Two patients with ulcerative colitis underwent ileostomy in this fashion. The stool became solid within 1 week after the start of solid food and their body weight increased by more than 10% 1 year after surgery.

Conclusion: This novel procedure may result in an improvement in the quality of life of patients who undergo total proctocolectomy.