PURPOSE: A mathematic model was developed to quantify colonic reservoir pouch capacity and to allow comparison with capacity of the parent colonic segment from which the pouch was fashioned. METHODS: Using geometry, pouch capacity was calculated and various capacities were enumerated. RESULTS: From this model, ideal pouch dimensions can be predicted, which are 6 to 7 cm of undistended bowel circumference with limb lengths of 8 to 10 cm. CONCLUSIONS: Such a pouch maximizes the pouch colon capacity ratio and has a calculated undistended capacity between 60 and 105 ml.