Endorectal pull-through operation in adults after colectomy and excision of rectal mucosa.

Ileal endorectal pull-through can be performed in adults after abdominal colectomy and excision of rectal mucosa. The procedure requires a painstaking dissection of the mucous membrane of the rectum to ensure cure of the polyposis or ulcerative colitis for which it is carried out. Some cases of ulcerative colitis are inappropriate for this dissection, and Crohn's disease prohibits the use of this operation. Fifteen operations in adults are described herein. Certain technical maneuvers have been of help to us and these are described. We have favored a diverting ileostomy maintained for 3 months. A pouch, positioned in the rectum, has hastened the return toward normal control. Sphincter control and responses have been uniformly good. Dilatations and sphincter exercises are routinely employed. Strictures are not rare but are amenable to correction by digital stretching.