Understanding Loop Stoma: Definition, Types, Openings
A loop stoma is made from a loop of bowel brought to the abdomen, creating two openings so stool can leave the body.
This guide explains the basic meaning, the two main types, and why a loop stoma may look different from an end stoma.
What is a Loop Stoma? (The Quick Answer)
A loop stoma is a stoma made by bringing a loop of bowel through an opening in the abdomen. The surgeon opens part of that bowel loop and brings it to the skin surface.
Because the bowel is opened while still connected as a loop, a loop stoma usually has two nearby openings. These openings may look like two small holes, two joined circles, or one oval-shaped stoma. ASCRS explains that a loop ostomy has two intestinal openings joined close together, and it may appear larger than an end ostomy.
In simple terms:
| Term | Simple meaning |
|---|---|
| Stoma | An opening on the abdomen where waste leaves the body |
| Loop stoma | Made from a loop of bowel |
| End stoma | Made from one cut end of bowel |
| Ileostomy | Made from the small intestine |
| Colostomy | Made from the colon |
Why a Surgeon May Create a Loop Stoma
A surgeon may create a loop stoma when stool needs to be redirected away from part of the bowel for a period of time. This may allow a lower section of bowel to rest or heal after disease, injury, or surgery.
A loop stoma is often used when the surgeon wants a stoma that may be easier to reverse later, depending on the person’s condition and recovery. Cleveland Clinic describes loop colostomy as usually temporary and often used when the bowel needs a temporary intervention.
Loop Ileostomy vs. Loop Colostomy: What’s the Difference?
The main difference is which part of the bowel is used.
Loop Ileostomy
A loop ileostomy is made from the ileum, which is the last part of the small intestine.
With an ileostomy, output is often looser because it comes from the small intestine before passing through most or all of the colon. Mayo Clinic explains that an ileostomy allows waste to exit through a stoma, while a colostomy diverts waste from the large intestine.
Loop Colostomy
A loop colostomy is made from the colon, which is part of the large intestine.
With a colostomy, output may be thicker than ileostomy output, depending on where the colostomy is located in the colon.
Quick comparison
| Type | Bowel section used | Output pattern may be |
|---|---|---|
| Loop ileostomy | Small intestine / ileum | More liquid or paste-like |
| Loop colostomy | Large intestine / colon | More formed, depending on location |
Cleveland Clinic also notes that a colostomy redirects the colon, while an ileostomy redirects the small intestine, especially the ileum.
Why Does a Loop Stoma Have Two Openings?
A loop stoma often has two openings because the bowel is brought to the abdomen as a loop.
UOAA explains that a loop ileostomy has two openings; stool passes through one opening, while the other may produce only mucus. |
This does not always mean the two openings are easy to see. Some loop stomas look like one larger oval opening. Others look like two small openings close together.
Is a Loop Stoma Always Temporary?
A loop stoma is often temporary, but not every case is the same.
Many loop stomas are created with the possibility of reversal. However, the final plan depends on the person’s health, the bowel condition, healing, and the surgeon’s judgment. Mayo Clinic explains that a temporary ileostomy may be reversed after the bowel heals, but healing may take weeks, months, or sometimes longer.
A loop stoma may remain in place longer than expected if the body needs more time to recover or if reversal is not considered safe at that time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a loop stoma the same as a loop ileostomy?
Not always. Loop stoma is the general term. A loop ileostomy is one type of loop stoma made from the small intestine. A loop colostomy is another type made from the colon.
Does a loop stoma always have two visible holes?
A loop stoma usually has two openings, but they may not be clearly visible. The stoma may look oval, joined, swollen, or like one larger opening.
Can mucus come from a loop stoma?
Yes. The lower opening may release mucus because the bowel lining can still produce mucus. This can be normal, but any unusual bleeding, pain, strong odor, or major change should be checked by a healthcare professional.
Is a loop stoma easier to reverse than an end stoma?
A loop stoma is often created when reversal may be planned later. However, reversal depends on the person’s medical condition, healing, and surgical plan. Cleveland Clinic notes that loop colostomy is commonly chosen when a temporary colostomy is needed.
Why does my loop stoma look swollen after surgery?
A new stoma may look swollen after surgery and usually changes as it heals. UOAA notes that a stoma may shrink toward its final size over the weeks after surgery.
This article is for general education only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please follow your surgeon or stoma nurse’s guidance for your own condition.