What does an ileostomy involve?

An ileostomy involves creating a surgical opening through the abdominal wall into the ileum, which is the last part of the small intestine. This procedure is performed to allow waste to exit the body when the usual pathway through the colon is not possible, often due to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. During an ileostomy, the ileum is brought through the abdominal wall, and a stoma is formed, allowing digestive waste to be collected in an external pouch. This procedure provides a vital alternative for individuals who have had their colon removed or bypassed.

The other options do not accurately describe what an ileostomy involves. A deficiency of blood supply relates to vascular issues rather than surgical procedures. Retaining urine or fecal matter does not correspond with the purpose of an ileostomy, which is designed to divert waste. A condition related to the groin does not connect with the function or definition of an ileostomy, which specifically pertains to the intestine rather than any condition of the groin area.