Continent ileostomy (Kock pouch) is an alternative to end ileostomy for patients who
have undergone total proctocolectomy. The procedure reached the height of its popularity
soon after its introduction in 1969, but subsequently was supplanted by ileal pouch
anal anastomosis (IPAA), an operation that preserves the natural route of defecation.
Continent ileostomy is still appropriate for selected patients with ulcerative colitis
and familial polyposis who are not candidates for IPAA or for whom IPAA or end ileostomy
have failed. Complication rates that initially were high have decreased during the
past three decades following the steady introduction of technical improvements.
Continent ileostomy - Kock pouch - technique - review
