Table 2.

Indications and contraindications for a continent ileostomy.

Indications

Unsuitable anatomy for IPAA

Short small bowel or mesentery unable to reach pelvic floor

Sphincter excision or malfunction

Pelvic radiation

Selected Crohn' s disease

Perianal fistulas

Failed IPAA

Functioning or dysfunctional conventional ileostomy

Contraindications

Most patients with Crohn's disease

Desmoid disease

Potential risk of short bowel syndrome

Exigent surgery for acute severe colitis

Inability to manage stomal intubation

IPAA: ileal pouch-anal anastomosis.