Conditions | Ostomy
What is an Ostomy?
Many colorectal cancer patient who have surgery will need to have a stoma. An ostomy, or stoma, is a surgically created opening in the skin that is connected to either the small or large intestine (bowel). It can be temporary (for months to years) or permanent.
An ostomy changes the path of where stool comes out of your body. Stool is diverted out through the stoma, instead of through the rectum and anus. A bag is attached to the stoma to collect stool and gas and is changed as needed.
A temporary colostomy or ileostomy may be needed to allow your bowel time to heal after cancer surgery. Generally, temporary ostomies are in place for around three to six months. Once enough time has passed, we ensure that your bowel has healed by performing a couple of tests. Once we are confirmed that your bowel has healed, we plan for another short surgery to reverse the stoma. Reversing a temporary stoma may be delayed if you are recommended to undergo chemotherapy after surgery as this will impact your ability to heal after surgery.
A permanent colostomy usually involves the last part of the colon or rectum. The remaining portion of the colon is brought out to the abdominal wall to form the stoma. Your Surgeon will talk to you in detail if your cancer or condition requires an ostomy and if they believe this will be temporary or permanent.
What will my life be like with an Ostomy?
When we plan to create an ostomy, you will meet with one of our Clinical Nurse Specialists, who have specialty certification in Wound, Ostomy and Continence care. They will provide you with extensive teaching before AND after surgery so that you understand how to care for your new stoma and how to manage it for as long as you need it. They will help you understand what supports are available to you to assist with bags and supplies and provide you with hands-on teaching.
Many patients are concerned about how an ostomy will impact their body image, sexual intimacy with partners, or how they will cope in everyday social situations. You will be able to do most, if not all, of the same activities you enjoyed before your ostomy. After you’ve recovered from surgery, you will be able to return to physical activity, go swimming, and eat regular foods.
