Hartmann's pouch is defined as which of the following?

• A. A section of distal intestine whose proximal end is closed off and left within the peritoneal cavity, is contiguous with the rectum and anus
• B. A pouch used to decompress the stomach
• C. A stoma formed from the ileum that drains urine
• D. A loop stoma of the ascending colon

Answer: (A)

Hartmann's pouch is the distal bowel segment left in the abdomen after removing a diseased portion and bringing out the proximal segment as a colostomy, with the distal end closed off and remaining inside the peritoneal cavity. This distal stump sits in the pelvis and is contiguous with the rectum and anal region, but it is not exteriorized. This is distinct from a gastric decompression pouch, an ileal conduit for urinary drainage, or a loop stoma of the ascending colon. In practice, the distal stump can sometimes be reconnected later if conditions allow.