A colostomy is a common surgical procedure that pulls a section of the large intestine (colon) through an opening in the abdominal wall.
The opening is known as a stoma. A pouch is placed over the stoma to collect waste products that would usually pass through the colon and out of the body through the rectum and anus (your back passage).
A colostomy can be permanent or temporary.
It is estimated that around 6,400 permanent colostomies are carried out each year in the UK.
When is a colostomy needed?
A colostomy is needed when there is a problem with an area of the colon. For example, if the colon has become damaged, blocked or affected by conditions such as bowel cancer.
Read more about why a colostomy is necessary.
Types of colostomy
There are two main types of colostomies. They are:
- a loop colostomy, where a loop of colon is brought to the abdominal skin surface and two openings are made in the stoma
- an end colostomy, where one end of the colon is brought to the abdominal skin surface (stoma has one opening)
Loop colostomies are usually temporary. Temporary colostomies are sometimes used after surgery, injury or infection when a section of the colon has been damaged. This gives it time to heal before it is rejoined and the stoma is closed.
End colostomies are usually permanent but can be temporary. A permanent colostomy may be needed if the colon is severely damaged or if it is necessary to remove the rectum or anus.
Read more information on how a colostomy is performed and colostomy reversal.
An alternative to a colostomy is an ileostomy. This stoma is made from the last part of your small bowel. Your surgeon will advise you which stoma is necessary and the reasons for this.
Read more about the alternatives to colostomy.
Colostomies are often described by the section of colon they are made from. They can be called transverse, descending or sigmoid colostomies. These are all technical terms used by surgeons but in practice, the way you care for any of these will be the same.
Living with a colostomy
If you need a colostomy, you may initially be concerned that your day-to-day activities will be restricted and that others will notice you are wearing a colostomy bag.
Modern colostomy equipment is both discreet and secure and there is no reason why you should not be able to take part in activities that you enjoyed before having a colostomy. Furthermore, other people will only be aware that you have a colostomy if you decide to tell them.
Adjusting to life after having a colostomy can be challenging and for some people it can also be distressing. However, most people become accustomed to it over time without experiencing the symptoms that made it necessary in the first place.
It is important to follow the recommendations given to you by the stoma nurse about the use of equipment to avoid problems and possible complications.
Read more information about living with a colostomy.
