Ostomy surgery of the bowel
Ostomy surgery of the bowel, also known as bowel diversion, is a procedure that creates an opening (stoma) in the abdomen to allow waste to exit the body when part or all of the bowel is diseased, injured, or missing.
What is an Ostomy?
- An ostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the abdominal wall that allows waste to exit the body.
- The stoma is connected to the large intestine (colon) or small intestine (ileum), depending on the type of ostomy.
- Waste then collects in a pouch or bag worn on the outside of the body.
Why is Ostomy Surgery Needed?
- Ostomy surgery is often necessary when part or all of the bowel is removed due to conditions like cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), trauma, or bowel obstruction.
- It can also be used to allow the bowel to heal after surgery or injury.
- Other reasons for ostomy surgery include birth defects, incontinence, and other medical conditions.
Types of Ostomy Surgery:
- Ileostomy: Connects the ileum (the end of the small intestine) to the abdominal wall.
- Colostomy: Connects the colon (part of the large intestine) to the abdominal wall.
- Urostomy: Connects the ureter (the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder) to the abdominal wall, allowing urine to exit the body through a stoma.
- Continent Ileostomy: A type of ileostomy where a pouch is created inside the body to store stool, allowing for intermittent emptying.
What to Expect Before and During Ostomy Surgery
- Pre-operative preparation: Your surgeon and an ostomy nurse will help you prepare for surgery, including discussing the procedure, how the ostomy pouch works, and how to adjust to life with a stoma.
- Surgery: The surgeon will create an opening in the abdominal wall and connect the intestine to the skin, forming the stoma.
- Post-operative care: An ostomy nurse will provide education, support, and advice to help you adjust to life after ostomy surgery.