A new technique of ileal pouch construction for patients undergoing colectomy, mucosal proctectomy and endorectal ileal pouch to anal anastomosis for chronic ulcerative colitis or familial polyposis coli is reported. The simple stapling technique, whereby a linear stapler is repeatedly fired through a single apical enterotomy can be performed rapidly and safely and facilitates subsequent anastomosis of the ileal J pouch to the anus.