Colostomy

What Is a Colostomy?

A colostomy is a surgical procedure in which a physician creates a new connection between the large intestines (colon) and the anterior abdominal wall for transit and bowel removal.  The physician forms an opening (stoma) in the anterior abdominal wall through which the stools can drain into a bag.  A colostomy can be permanent or temporary depending on the type of surgery done. 

There can be many reasons why one requires colostomy surgery.  If the patient suffers from rectal or colon cancer, he or she might not be able to release waste (transit) through the anus.  Many patients who undergo extensive surgery in the lower abdomen or rectal area might also need a colostomy to relieve pressure for the treatment area.   

Prior to the surgery, you might meet with an enterostomal therapy specialist who can advise you on how to take care of your colostomy opening.  Knowing how to clean the area and empty the bag is vital to due to the high risk of infection.  The entire surgery takes several hours and is performed under general anesthesia.  When you wake up, the colostomy bag will be attached to the stoma along with several drainage tubes.