The defecation pattern and diet in patients with an ileum reservoir and anal anastomosis with a long efferent leg.

The dietary habits and defecation patterns of 12 patients were examined 8-34 months after total colectomy with mucosal proctectomy and the construction of an ileal reservoir attached to an anal anastomosis. The reservoir was provided with a long efferent leg (12 cm) through the anal canal. The patients were divided into two groups in accordance with the frequency of defecation--one with fewer than six defecations per 24 h and another with more than six defecations per 24 h. The fecal output, however, was not significantly different in the two groups. The fecal content of sodium and potassium was the same as in feces from conventional ileostomies. The dietary intake was insufficient in energy content, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. Dietary supplement was recommended.