Colostomy… what does it mean and how to take care of it

 

Colostomy means an opening in the colon, and it is in English colostomy, as it is divided into two syllables: ostomy, which means opening, and colon, which means the word colon.

 

It is the diversion of the natural course of the stool to exit from an opening on the skin of the abdomen instead of the opening of the anus without passing through the rectum.

 

The colostomy can be a temporary opening to allow the bowel to rest, or permanent in very severe cases, consisting of two pieces or a one-piece only, where it is used in the presence of solid and cohesive dirt, It is also used in the event of watery dirt, and it comes in an open form from the bottom, for the possibility of emptying it of dirt, with forceps to close it.

 

where it is used

• A flange and open and closed urine and stool collection bag,  another exit for stool as an alternative to the anus

 

• The colostomy flange belt made of elastic fabric and feels comfortable. It is air permeable to reduce perspiration.

 

• It also contains a side opening that allows the installation of the colostomy base and exit bag, and it can be worn easily under clothes.

 

When is colostomy used and what are the side effects?

The colostomy is used in the following cases

• Inflammatory bowel

 

• Colon and rectal cancer

 

• Bowel obstruction

 

• Genetic disorders and birth defects

 

The colostomy operation is performed with general anesthesia, and it may be through laparotomy and surgery, or through laparoscopic surgery through simple incisions and the use of a special camera to perform the operation.

 

The doctor is required to take proper measures for anesthesia so that no complications occur because of it.

 

The colostomy operation may also be accompanied by some side effects that must be taken into account after its procedure,

 

as internal bleeding or damage to some organs close to the colon may occur, or the operation site may be opened for several reasons, or the stoma may be large, through which the intestines will noticeably appear, or diarrhea and continuous vomiting.

 

After the operation, you should consult the attending physician if any of these symptoms occur.

 

How to take care of a colostomy

The individual needs about two months to recover after the operation, so care must be taken during that period, as there are some measures that can be taken to avoid any risks and reduce the months of fatigue.

 

• Care must be taken to empty the bag when it is full, and it is preferable to change the bags when needed

 

• The bag can be washed with water after emptying it

 

• Do not use antiseptics or soaps when cleaning the hole or the skin circle, as only water is used

 

• Make sure to wash your hands well before starting and after finishing

 

General advice after a colostomy procedure

There are many general tips to maintain the patient’s health after the operation, Of which

• Stick to a healthy diet

 

• Avoid any food that may cause bloating or gas

 

• Paying attention to drinking plenty of water when diarrhea or constipation occurs, and trying to avoid their occurrence

 

• Adherence to the medications prescribed by the doctor and not to take any other type without his guidance

 

• Carry on with daily activities without embarrassment

 

• As the supplies of the colostomy are designed in appropriate ways so as not to show from under the clothes

 

• Avoid stress and the actions that lead to it

Explanatory video of how to use colostomy flanges