A procedure called a continent ileostomy (Kock pouch) is done if you want your external pouch converted to an internal one, or if you can't get the IPAA operation.
In this procedure, there is a stoma but no bag. Your surgeon removes your colon and rectum and creates an internal reservoir from your small intestine. He makes an opening in your belly wall and joins the reservoir to your skin with a nipple valve. To drain the pouch, you insert a catheter through the valve into the internal reservoir.
Other techniques are available. All surgeries carry some risk and complications. If you've been told you need surgery to treat ulcerative colitis, you may want to get a second opinion to make sure you make the best choice for you.