In an ileostomy, the surgeon removes your colon, rectum, and anus. This operation reroutes part of your digestive system so food waste goes from your small intestine straight out of your body through a hole, or stoma. It collects in an external pouch, or bag, that's connected to the outside of your lower belly. You change it when it gets full.
Your ileostomy may be permanent, or you might get it as a temporary measure before you get a J-pouch.