An ostomy surgery aimed at creating an opening in the colon and diverting that opening through the abdominal wall to form a stoma is called a colostomy. This stoma allows waste to fall into an external bag. Several diseases can result in a person requiring bypassing or removal of the rectum. So, the doctor decides to give the patient a stoma before removing or bypassing the diseased part of the colon. If your bowel needs some time to heal, you do part of the colon out of function. After the healing is complete, the colostomy can be reversed with the help of another surgical procedure. This reversal restores the bowel’s normal function. There are some cases in which the rectum requires permanent removal. The resulting colostomy in such cases is permanent. Reasons for colostomy include Cancer, diverticulitis, imperforate anus, Hirschsprung’s disease, and trauma. How to take care of the colostomy The most convenient way to manage a colostomy is to wear an ostomy bag. This bag fits around the stoma and forms a seal with the peristomal skin through a wafer or skin barrier. Based on your specific requirements, you can either choose a disposable bag or a reusable pouch. Ideally, you need to ask your doctor about the type of pouching system that is useful for you. Another way to manage your colostomy is stoma irrigation. For this, you are going to have to learn to respond to your bowel movements. After taking note of the bowel movements, you can schedule stoma irrigation daily. Again, your doctor or ostomy care nurse is the best source of information regarding whether or not you are eligible for stoma irrigation. Living with a colostomy
1 Comment
|