Indications

Abstract

When the Kock pouch or the continent ileostomy was first described in 1969 it was the first and only alternative for patients to avoid a permanent end ileostomy after proctocolectomy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease. The operation eliminated the need for external appliances and improved the quality of life for many patients. In the late 1970s the ileal pelvic pouch became a more attractive alternative with a normal route of defecation, and the use of the Kock pouch declined. Today the use of the Kock pouch is limited, but a few clinical situations remain where it may still be a valuable surgical option. These indications are discussed in the following chapter.