Colostomy explanation, including surgical process, potential hazards, and post-operative healing
A colostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening, or stoma, in the abdominal wall to allow the passage of stool from the colon. This procedure can be temporary or permanent, depending on the individual's condition.
The Colostomy Procedure
The colostomy procedure typically begins with administering a general anesthetic to ensure the patient is asleep and comfortable throughout the operation. The surgeon then cleans and prepares the surgical site before making an incision. A tiny camera and surgical tools are inserted to guide the process. The colon is brought through the abdominal wall, and the surgeon stitches it to the abdominal wall to form the stoma. A stoma bag is then attached around the opening to collect the waste.
Pre-Operative Assessment and Post-Operative Recovery
Before the procedure, people undergo a pre-op assessment a few days or weeks prior. This assessment includes discussing concerns and potential risks with the surgeon. After the surgery, individuals typically stay in the hospital for 3-7 days, but those with complications may need to stay longer.
Types of Colostomies
There are three types of transverse colostomies: loop, single-barrel, and double-barrel. The type of colostomy performed depends on the individual's specific condition and the surgeon's preference.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgery, a colostomy carries certain risks. These may include damage to nearby organs, prolapse of the colostomy, bleeding inside the belly, hernias at the incision, narrowing or blockage of the stoma, wounds breaking open, intestinal blockage due to scar tissue, and medication reactions, breathing problems, bleeding, and infections associated with anesthesia.
Conditions Requiring a Colostomy
A colostomy may be necessary when part of the bowel is not functioning properly. Common conditions that may require a colostomy or ileostomy procedure include colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), bowel obstruction, recurrent diverticulitis, congenital abnormalities of the intestines, and traumatic injuries to the intestines.
For a temporary colostomy, the surgeon cuts into the side of the colon and stitches it into a hole in the abdominal wall. This allows for a possible reversal of the colostomy at a later stage. The colostomy procedure can be performed using open surgery or keyhole surgery (laparoscopic surgery).
Living with a Colostomy
People may have questions about living with a colostomy, such as emptying and caring for the colostomy bag, the appearance of the stoma, showering and swimming with a colostomy, controlling the time of colostomy output, dietary restrictions, traveling with a colostomy, and the impact of a colostomy on pregnancy. It is recommended to discuss these concerns with the medical team.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Colostomy. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/colostomy/about/pac-20394742
[2] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Colostomy. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16020-colostomy
[3] National Health Service (NHS). (2021). Colostomy. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/colostomy/
- A person's digestive health may be affected by medical conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases, or familial adenomatous polyposis, potentially requiring a colostomy procedure.
- Living with a colostomy may involve learning how to empty and care for the colostomy bag, managing the appearance of the stoma, and understanding how to navigate dietary restrictions and travel while using a colostomy.
- The risks and complications of a colostomy can include damage to nearby organs, prolapse of the colostomy, and reactions to medication or anesthesia. However, the type of surgery (open or keyhole) and the specific medical condition may impact these risks.
