What is an ileal conduit primarily used for?

An ileal conduit is primarily used for diverting urine. This procedure involves using a segment of the ileum, which is a part of the small intestine, to create a stoma through which urine can be expelled from the body. This is generally performed when the bladder is not functional due to disease, trauma, or other medical conditions.

The ileal conduit serves as a pathway for urine to bypass the bladder, allowing for proper drainage. After the ileum is sectioned off, the ends of the ureters, which carry urine from the kidneys, are connected to this segment of the intestine. The urine is then expelled through the stoma created in the abdominal wall.

Other options listed pertain to different surgical procedures or functions. Creating a surgical opening in the abdominal wall is a general description that does not specify the urinary function. A partial gastrectomy involves the surgical resection of part of the stomach, completely unrelated to urine diversion. Connecting ureters to the sigmoid colon is a different approach, typically considered for urinary diversion options like the colon conduit, and does not accurately reflect the specific utilization of the ileal conduit.