WHAT IS AN ILEAL CONDUIT (BRICKER)?

An ileal conduit (Bricker conduit) is one of the most commonly performed urinary diversion procedures following radical cystectomy. During the operation, a short segment of the small intestine is used to create a new passage for urine, allowing it to drain continuously through a stoma into a specialized external collection pouch. According to the 2026 European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines, the ileal conduit remains a reliable, well-established, and durable urinary diversion option for appropriately selected patients.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What is an ileal conduit?

Who is a candidate for an ileal conduit?

How is the operation performed?

What is a stoma?

What are the advantages of an ileal conduit?

Are there any disadvantages?

What is life like after surgery?

The EAU 2026 key message for patients

Urinary diversion planning with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Serdar Yalçın

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS AN ILEAL CONDUIT?

An ileal conduit is a surgically created urinary diversion performed after the bladder has been removed.

A short segment of the small intestine, usually 15–20 cm, is separated from the bowel.

Both ureters are connected to this intestinal segment, while the opposite end is brought through the abdominal wall to create a stoma.

Urine continuously drains through the stoma into a specially designed external collection pouch.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR AN ILEAL CONDUIT?

An ileal conduit is commonly recommended for:

• Patients undergoing radical cystectomy for Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer (MIBC)

• Older adults

• Patients with significant medical comorbidities

• Patients who are not suitable candidates for an orthotopic neobladder

The most appropriate urinary diversion should always be determined individually.

HOW IS THE OPERATION PERFORMED?

During surgery:

• The bladder is removed.

• A short segment of the small intestine is isolated.

• The ureters are connected to the intestinal segment.

• The intestinal segment is brought through the abdominal wall.

• A stoma is created.

Urine then drains continuously through the stoma into an external pouch.

WHAT IS A STOMA?

A stoma is a small, pink opening created on the abdominal wall.

Because the stoma itself contains no pain-sensitive nerve endings, it is not painful.

Urine drains continuously and involuntarily into a specially designed ostomy bag attached to the skin.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF AN ILEAL CONDUIT?

Potential advantages include:

• A well-established and reliable surgical technique

• Excellent long-term clinical outcomes

• Relatively straightforward postoperative care

• Faster adaptation for many patients

• A predictable and durable urinary diversion

ARE THERE ANY DISADVANTAGES?

Some considerations include:

• A permanent external stoma bag is required.

• Patients must learn routine stoma care.

• Stoma-related complications may occasionally occur.

With proper education and regular follow-up, most of these issues can be successfully managed.

WHAT IS LIFE LIKE AFTER SURGERY?

Many patients return to active and independent lives following recovery.

With appropriate education and support from specialized stoma nurses, most patients are able to travel, work, exercise, and participate in social activities.

THE EAU 2026 KEY MESSAGE FOR PATIENTS

According to the 2026 European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines, the choice of urinary diversion should never depend solely on the surgeon’s preference.

The decision should consider:

• Overall health

• Kidney function

• Life expectancy

• Manual dexterity

• Lifestyle

• Patient expectations and preferences

URINARY DIVERSION PLANNING WITH ASSOC. PROF. DR. SERDAR YALÇIN

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Serdar Yalçın carefully evaluates every patient undergoing radical cystectomy in Bodrum, Türkiye, to determine the most appropriate urinary diversion according to the latest European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines.

Options including ileal conduit, orthotopic neobladder, and other reconstructive techniques are discussed in detail, taking into account each patient’s medical condition, lifestyle, functional expectations, and personal preferences.

In addition to patients from Bodrum and the Muğla region, individuals from across Türkiye and abroad seek consultation for robotic bladder cancer surgery, second opinions, and urinary diversion planning.

Patients frequently emphasize individualized care, detailed preoperative counseling, close postoperative follow-up, and a strong focus on maintaining long-term quality of life.

CONCLUSION

The ileal conduit remains one of the most widely performed and reliable urinary diversion techniques following radical cystectomy worldwide. Careful patient selection, comprehensive education, and structured follow-up allow many patients to enjoy a safe, active, and fulfilling life after bladder cancer surgery.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is an ileal conduit permanent?

Yes. In most patients, it is intended to be a permanent urinary diversion.

Is the stoma painful?

No. The stoma itself has no pain-sensitive nerve endings. However, skin irritation or stoma-related complications should be evaluated by your healthcare team.

Can I live a normal life with an ileal conduit?

Yes. With appropriate education and follow-up, many patients successfully return to work, travel, sports, and normal daily activities.

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