Ostomies
An ostomy (or stoma) is a surgically created opening on the abdomen that allows stool from the intestines or urine from the urinary tract to be diverted out of the body.
Ostomies in brief
- Purpose: It replaces the natural digestive route and allows waste to be collected into a pouch attached to the abdomen.
- Location: Usually on the abdomen, depending on which part of the intestine is brought to the surface of the skin.
- Appearance and feel: Red, moist, and similar to the mucous membrane inside the mouth. It is not painful, as it does not have nerve endings.
- Reasons: The most common reasons include colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn’s disease), and bowel obstructions.
- Living with an ostomy: You can live a normal life with an ostomy, including exercising and enjoying your hobbies.
What is an ostomy?
There are three types of ostomies: an opening created from the large intestine (colostomy), an opening created from the small intestine (ileostomy), and a urinary diversion (urostomy), where urine is diverted out of the body using a section of the intestine.
A stoma is typically reddish, moist, and painless. Its appearance may feel unfamiliar at first, but you will get used to it over time. Daily life with an ostomy is possible and manageable for most people, and guidance and support are available whenever needed.
Temporary ostomy
A temporary ostomy is created to allow the operated part of the intestine to heal undisturbed. It is often used in situations where the healing of the intestinal anastomosis carries a higher risk than usual. The temporary ostomy can be reversed later in a subsequent surgery once the bowel has healed, which typically happens after a few weeks or months.
A temporary ostomy is frequently a loop ostomy (for example, a loop colostomy or loop ileostomy), which can later be closed by reconnecting the ends of the intestine.
You can live a normal daily life with an ostomy. It is perfectly fine to be active, exercise, and shower or swim. Ostomy pouches are designed to protect the skin and stay securely in place. While some people may experience issues like skin irritation around the stoma or later develop a parastomal hernia, treatment and help are available for most complications.
Permanent ostomy
A permanent colostomy is a necessary treatment solution in certain situations. Although sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer has advanced significantly in recent years, a permanent ostomy remains necessary for some patients.
Most often, a permanent colostomy is related to the treatment of cancer in the lower rectum or anal area. An ostomy may also be required in situations where bowel continence is significantly impaired and cannot be repaired through surgical treatments.
A colostomy is typically created during the final stages of a lengthy surgery. For this reason, the location of the stoma is carefully planned in advance together with healthcare professionals. Proper planning helps ensure that the ostomy is as easy to care for and as functional as possible in daily life.