enterostomy
Surgical creation of an opening between the small intestine and the abdominal wall for diversion or feeding.
Full Definition
An enterostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) that connects a portion of the small intestine to the exterior abdominal wall. In pediatric surgery, enterostomies serve various purposes including fecal diversion, decompression, or providing access for enteral nutrition. Common types include ileostomy (terminal ileum), jejunostomy (jejunum), and duodenostomy (duodenum). These procedures may be temporary or permanent, depending on the underlying condition and surgical goals. Enterostomies require specialized care and monitoring for complications such as obstruction, prolapse, or skin irritation around the stoma site.
Usage
Usage note: Specify type of enterostomy (ileostomy, jejunostomy) when possible for clarity.
In Context
- "A protective loop ileostomy was created as part of the enterostomy procedure." — Operative report
- "The enterostomy output was monitored closely for signs of high output syndrome." — Postoperative care note