Colostomy: What is it and why it needed

A colostomy is a procedure where the large intestine is pulled through the abdominal wall. If there is a problem with your lower bowel, then a colostomy may be necessary. Sometimes these problems are not permanent and can be fixed by turning stool away from the lower bowel.

A permanent colostomy may be necessary if the colon is no longer viable. Some of these reasons include:

• Colon Cancer

• Colonic Polyps- extra tissue grows in the colon. The tissue can be cancerous or turn cancerous.

• IBS- Irritable bowel syndrome causes bloating, constipation and abdominal pain.

• Crohn’s disease-inflammatory bowel disease.

• Diverticulitis- diverticula in digestive system becomes infected.

An injury or a blockage in the colon can also make a colostomy necessary.

During the procedure, a stoma is created by taking one end of the colon and sending it through an incision in the abdominal wall. A pouch for the feces is attached to the stoma. 

Sometimes colostomies are not permanent. The procedure is used to fix lower digestive tract problems. 

What are the risks?

This procedure is categorized as major surgery so there are some risk. Some of these risk include:

• Other organs become damaged.

• An internal organ may go through a weak part of the muscle and cause an hernia. 

• Colostomy prolapse

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Colostomy can become blocked

Like with any major surgery, an allergic reaction to anesthesia and experiencing heavy bleeding is always a possibility. Before the surgery, you need to speak with your doctor. They can explain the risk and any possible complications that can arise during surgery.

Getting ready for a colostomy

When your doctor feels like a colostomy is your best option, they will take blood samples, do a physical examination, and check your medical history. Your doctor will ask about past surgeries and if you are taking any medication. Make sure to tell them everything, no matter how small it seems, even over-the-counter medication.

Most likely, you will need to fast at least twelve hours before your surgery, and they may want to perform an enema the night before. Your doctor will want to make sure that your bowels are clear before the surgery. 

Before and after the procedure

Once you are sleeping due to the anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision in your stomach. 

The surgery largely depends on what type of surgery will be performed. The surgeon may or may not use a laparoscopy. Laparoscopy is where small tools and a camera is inserted into the incision so the surgeon can perform the surgery. Whichever method the surgeon uses, the surgeon will make an incision, find the right part of the intestine, and pull it through the abdominal wall. A ring will be implanted into the abdominal wall to keep the end of the intestines in the right place. Your surgeon may use the ring to help your skin heal around the intestine, or it may be permanent. 

Once finished, the surgeon will stitch you up. You will be taken to a recovery room and watched to make sure there are no problems. You will probably be in the hospital for at least five to seven days. During this time, your doctor will slowly reintroduce you to solid food. Starting with liquids to make sure the digestive system still works correctly. Then you will be shown how to use the colostomy bag. 

There will be follow-up appointments so your doctor can make sure that everything is healing and working correctly.