Colostomy
Content
COLOSTOMY What is a colostomy? A colostomy is an incision (cut) into the colon (large intestine) to create an artificial opening or "stoma" to the exterior of the abdomen. This opening serves as a substitute anus through which the intestines can eliminate waste products until the colon can heal or other corrective surgery can be done. The bowel movements fall into a collection pouch. Our ostomy nursing staff will teach you skin care and how to change the bag.
Diagram of colostomy, showing creation of two stomas When is a colostomy needed? A colostomy may be needed to divert intestinal contents in conditions such as necrotizing enterocolitis ( an acute inflammatory disease of the bowel), imperforate anus(absence of anal opening) or Hirschsprung's Disease (a condition in which the nerves controlling bowel function are abnormal). Each one of these conditions will be explained in detail by your pediatric surgeon. How is a colostomy created? 1. 2. 3. 4.
an abdominal opening is created the intestines are brought out through the skin the intestine is sutured to the skin the stoma is complete
How is a colostomy cared for? There are many products available for colostomy care. You will be carefully instructed about colostomy care before discharge from the hospital. Many stomas are temporary and can later be closed.
Diagram of colostomy, showing creation of two stomas When is a colostomy needed? A colostomy may be needed to divert intestinal contents in conditions such as necrotizing enterocolitis ( an acute inflammatory disease of the bowel), imperforate anus(absence of anal opening) or Hirschsprung's Disease (a condition in which the nerves controlling bowel function are abnormal). Each one of these conditions will be explained in detail by your pediatric surgeon. How is a colostomy created? 1. 2. 3. 4.
an abdominal opening is created the intestines are brought out through the skin the intestine is sutured to the skin the stoma is complete
How is a colostomy cared for? There are many products available for colostomy care. You will be carefully instructed about colostomy care before discharge from the hospital. Many stomas are temporary and can later be closed.
