ILEOSTOMY AND COLOSTOMY

Both an ileostomy and colostomy are surgical procedures used for creating an opening through the abdominal wall to remove solid waste from the body.

A colostomy attaches the colon to an opening in the wall of the abdomen to create a stoma. It is performed for intestinal problems such as cancer of the colon, obstructive tumors, diverticular disease, and severe abdominal wounds. It may be temporary or permanent. Patients lead normal lives and learn how to empty their colon by using a special collecting device. They also learn about necessary dietary changes and how to clean and care for the stoma and its protective cover.

An ileostomy connects the small intestine to an opening in the wall of the abdomen to create a stoma. It is required when the large intestine and rectum must be removed due to disease or abnormality. The opening becomes an artificial anus for expelling solid waste. The patient continuously wears a disposable bag that collects the semiliquid waste. The frequent passage of similiquid waste can cause the skin around the opening to become irritated. A variation exists for patients with intact anal muscles. It involves joining the small intestine to an inside pouch just above the anus. This pouch may be called a J-pouch or W-pouch. Careful skin care and a well-fitting bag can help to protect the skin. This allows for elimination of solid waste in a more normal way.

Improved devices and products are making life with an ostomy more comfortable and easy. A support group, called the United Ostomy Association, has information on diet, equipment, and other issues the members have in common. For more information, call (800) 826-0826 or visit their website at www.uoa.org.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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