What is Hartmann's Pouch primarily used for?

Hartmann's Pouch is primarily utilized for creating a temporary colostomy or ileostomy. This surgical procedure is often implemented when there is a need to divert fecal material away from the distal segment of the bowel, typically due to conditions such as diverticulitis, bowel obstruction, or trauma. During the procedure, the affected portion of the bowel is resected, and the proximal end is brought out as a stoma, while the distal portion is left either closed or decompressed.

The temporary nature of Hartmann's Pouch allows for recovery and healing of the bowel before a second stage of surgery may be performed to restore intestinal continuity. This approach helps manage complicated bowel conditions while providing a viable option for further intervention later on. Hence, its use is well aligned with its primary function of providing temporal diversion of fecal matter, making it essential in the context of acute surgical scenarios.