Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis without temporary, diverting ileostomy.

Of two hundred patients undergoing proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis, all but nine have had temporary diverting ileostomies. Of these nine patients, eight had successful results. One patient developed abdominal sepsis due to jejunal volvulus and perforation after she had returned home, and at surgery the pouch was excised. Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis without a temporary diverting ileostomy can be performed safely by surgeons experienced with this procedure in carefully selected patients.