An ileal conduit diverts urine to a reservoir formed from which part of the intestine?

• A. Duodenum
• B. Jejunum
• C. Terminal ileum
• D. Sigmoid colon

Answer: (C)

Diverting urine through an ileal conduit uses a segment of the small intestine to act as a channel and a storage reservoir. The segment chosen is from the ileum, typically the terminal portion, because it can be easily isolated with its blood supply and fashioned into a compliant, roomy space that adheres well to a stoma. Using the terminal ileum helps preserve the rest of the bowel and minimizes metabolic and digestive disturbances that can occur with other segments. Duodenum or jejunum would bring more secretions and potential electrolyte issues when exposed to urine, while the sigmoid colon is more associated with other types of urinary reservoirs. So, the reservoir is formed from the terminal ileum.