Ileal conduit urinary diversion

Ileal Conduit Urinary Diversion is a surgical procedure that creates a new pathway for urine to exit the body after the bladder has been removed or is not functioning properly. This procedure is often performed in patients with bladder cancer, severe bladder dysfunction, or other conditions that necessitate the removal of the bladder.

Procedure

The procedure involves using a segment of the ileum, the last part of the small intestine, to create a conduit for urine to pass from the kidneys to the outside of the body. The ureters, tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, are surgically attached to one end of the ileal segment. The other end of the ileal segment is brought out through an opening in the abdominal wall, known as a stoma. Urine drains continuously from the stoma into a pouch that the patient wears on the outside of the body.

Indications

Ileal conduit urinary diversion is indicated in cases where the bladder needs to be removed due to conditions such as bladder cancer, severe bladder dysfunction, or other conditions that affect the bladder's ability to store and eliminate urine. It may also be performed in patients who have had previous pelvic radiation or surgery that has resulted in a non-functioning bladder.

Complications

As with any surgical procedure, ileal conduit urinary diversion carries potential risks and complications. These may include infection, bleeding, blockage of the ureters, stoma complications, and changes in kidney function. Long-term follow-up and regular monitoring are necessary to manage these potential complications.

Postoperative Care

After the procedure, patients will need to learn how to care for their stoma and how to change their urine collection pouch. They will also need regular follow-up care to monitor their kidney function and to check for any complications.

See Also

• Urostomy
• Bladder Cancer
• Urinary System