In males, the prostate is also removed and sometimes the complete urethra as well
In females, it is sometimes necessary to remove the urethra and the womb and ovaries
An ileal conduit is a short segment (20cm) of the small intestine. This is isolated from the bowel on its own blood supply and connects and drains the ureters from the back of the abdomen to the skin where a stoma is formed
Why do I need this?
This is done when the bladder is diseased or non-functioning
The most common disease is bladder cancer. Sometimes benign conditions of inflammation or scarring may lead to the removal
A poor function such as inability to empty, incontinence or fistula may lead to this procedure
How long does it take?
3-5 hours under a general anesthetic
It is a long operation, especially if time is taken to remove lymph glands at the time of cancer operation
Bowel preparation is given pre-operatively
What are the risks?
Early complications can occur in up to 20% of patients
These include bleeding requiring transfusion
Infections of the wound, the urine or intra-abdominally – antibiotics are given
Bowel obstruction or leakage
Urinary leakage
Stomal problems
Blood clots, DVT and pulmonary embolus
Chest infection
Late complications can occur even many years later
Bowel obstruction
Stomal problems, hernias, prolapse, stenosis
Kidney problems with obstruction, stones, and infections
Metabolic problems
What can I expect after surgery?
Hospital stay is 7-14 days
The anesthetist will discuss options for pain relief before surgery
You will be able to manage the stoma on discharge
You should be able to manage personal care and toileting
