Loop ileostomy for protection of the newly constructed ileostomy reservoir.

Sixteen patients submitted to reservoir ileostomy were at the same time given a proximal loop ileostomy to defunction the reservoir for 2-3 months. All made smooth recoveries in the immediate postoperative period both before and after the closure of the loop ileostomy. During follow-up of at least 12 months the function of the reservoir ileostomy has been excellent except in one patient who developed dysfunction of the nipple valve requiring reoperation. On the basis of this experience, it is suggested that a temporary defunction loop ileostomy is a wise precaution in connection with reservoir ileostomy, which may lessen the incidence of complications and reduce the risks of later valve extrusion.