What is a colostomy?
A colostomy is a surgical procedure in which the doctor attaches the large
intestine (colon) to an opening in your abdomen. The opening is called a
stoma. Your bowel movements then pass through this opening instead of your
rectum and are collected in a bag outside the body. It may be either
temporary or permanent, depending on the type of problem you have.
When is it used?
A colostomy may be part of the surgical treatment for the following common
conditions affecting the large intestine:
- inflammatory disease
- cancer
- a blockage in the intestine
- an internal injury.
Other less common causes are:
- a pocket of pus (abscess) in the
intestine
- an incomplete connection between the
large intestine and other organs
- a torn intestine
- a birth defect.
How do I prepare for a colostomy?
You will need to be emotionally prepared to accept the surgery and willing
to learn how to care for yourself afterward. The doctor will explain the
surgery and how it will affect bowel movements and your physical
appearance. Most hospitals also have specially trained staff members to
teach you what you need to know for self-care. You may want to have family
members learn about your care so they can help you initially with support
and encouragement.
Your doctor will give you instructions on how to make your intestines
clean for surgery. This "bowel prep" usually consists of taking medicines
the day before surgery that will make your bowels loose. You may be told
not to eat anything and to drink only clear liquids the day before
surgery. You may be given antibiotics to prevent infection.
What happens during the procedure?
You are given a sedative and a general anesthesia. During the procedure,
the doctor will make an opening through your abdomen into your intestine.
The doctor cuts (resects) your intestine and attaches the loose end to the
new opening in your abdomen. A bag is attached to collect bowel movements.
What happens after the procedure?
After surgery you will be given intravenous fluids and electrolytes. You
may feel some discomfort from the incision and the drainage tubes. This
will go away in 3 or 4 days.
The doctor will first put you on a clear liquid diet. You will progress
gradually to regular food.
Self-care is important in regaining your independence and self-esteem. Try
to adjust positively to the change in your appearance. You can continue
your normal lifestyle (including sexual activity) with some adjustments
for changes in your physical appearance and bowel movement function. You
can:
- Prevent odor by keeping the seal leak
proof, cleaning the appliance well, and using a pouch deodorant.
- Use a room deodorizer if necessary.
- Empty the bag every night to prevent
leaking.
What are the benefits of this
procedure?
This procedure permits normal nutrition and allows the doctor to remove
and/or revise structures to produce the most healthy outcome. It can
reduce pain and symptoms as well as diminish long-term problems.
What are the risks associated with this procedure?
As with any surgery there is a risk that the general anesthetic will put
stress on your heart. Also, there is always a risk of an infection at the
site of the surgery.
Other risks include:
- The colostomy may become narrowed or
blocked.
- The colostomy can extend too far out
from the abdomen.
- Internal bleeding could occur.
When should I call the doctor?
Call the doctor immediately if:
- You develop a fever.
- You have any change or worsening of
pain or symptoms.
- You have unusual drainage from the
surgery area (including bloody drainage).
- You have a change in odor or type of
feces.
Call the doctor during office hours if:
- You have questions about the procedure
or its results.
- You want to make another appointment.
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