A review is presented of seven patients who have undergone a continent type of ileostomy, as described by Professor Kock. There has been no mortality. Two of the early patients had considerable difficulty with the functioning of the valve and required re-operation. No patient in the series now wears an external appliance. Six of the seven are fully continent; the seventh reports occasional leakage, but is satisfied with the operation. The operation is considered to be still under trial, but is regarded as having great potential and likely to be much more widely practised in the future.