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Understanding Colostomy Types and Care

A colostomy is a surgical procedure creating an opening (stoma) in the abdominal wall for waste elimination, with types including ileostomy, colostomy, and urostomy. Indications for colostomy include rectal and colon cancer, perforated diverticulitis, and colon injuries, with care involving routine pouch changes and skin maintenance. Complications may arise from anesthesia, surgery, or stoma-related issues, while living with a stoma requires dietary adjustments, exercise, and support for emotional well-being.

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48 views3 pages

Understanding Colostomy Types and Care

A colostomy is a surgical procedure creating an opening (stoma) in the abdominal wall for waste elimination, with types including ileostomy, colostomy, and urostomy. Indications for colostomy include rectal and colon cancer, perforated diverticulitis, and colon injuries, with care involving routine pouch changes and skin maintenance. Complications may arise from anesthesia, surgery, or stoma-related issues, while living with a stoma requires dietary adjustments, exercise, and support for emotional well-being.

Uploaded by

ibrahimkhalefa78degree
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Colostomy

Definition of Stoma
An ostomy is a surgical procedure where an opening (stoma) is created for waste to leave the
body.

 No muscles around the stoma.


 Waste is collected in an odor-proof pouch attached with adhesive.

Types of Stoma

 Ileostomy: opening from small bowel.


 Colostomy: opening from large bowel.
 Urostomy: opening from ureter for urine.

Colostomy (Intestinal Opening)


 Surgically created opening in the abdominal wall where stools drain into a bag.
 Temporary colostomy: allows bowel to rest, may be reversed.
 Permanent colostomy: needed when disease affects colon/rectum.

Indications

 Rectal & colon cancer.


 Perforated diverticulitis.
 Colon/rectal injury.
 Wounds or fistulas in perineum.

Characteristics of Stoma
 Red (healthy, rich in blood supply).
 Moist (mucous membrane).
 May bleed slightly during appliance change.
 No feeling (no nerve endings).
 Moves due to peristalsis.
 Varies in shape (round, oval, irregular).
 May swell (requires re-measurement).
Types of Colostomy
1. Ascending: Right abdomen; stool liquid, irritates skin (least common).
2. Transverse: Upper abdomen; one or two openings; stool semi-formed.
3. Descending/Sigmoid: Left lower abdomen; most common; stool semi-formed to well-
formed.

Steps of Creation

1. Abdominal opening created.


2. Intestines brought out.
3. Sutured to skin.
4. Stoma completed.

Colostomy Bag
 Disposable bag attached to stoma for waste.
 Odor-proof, lightweight, some have filters.

Types of Pouches

 Open-ended: drained and closed with clamp; used for loose stool.
 Closed-ended: discarded when full; used for formed stool.
 One-piece: bag + adhesive barrier in one unit.
 Two-piece: flange stays, bag detachable.
 Pre-cut / Cut-to-fit: customized size.
 Stoma covers/caps: used when stoma is inactive.

Routine Care of Colostomy


Equipment:

 Warm water, mild soap, tissues, wash cloth, towel.


 Clean pouch.
 Tape/seal to prevent leakage.
 Clean belt, gloves.
 Dressing materials.
 Receptacle for old pouch.
 Protective spray.

Care Steps:
 Empty pouch as needed.
 Replace pouch every 4–7 days (2–3 for children).
 Care for skin & stoma, prevent irritation.
 Irrigation if approved by healthcare provider.

Complications
 Anesthesia risks: drug reactions, breathing problems.
 Surgery risks: bleeding, infection.
 Stoma-related:
o Retraction.
o Peristomal hernia.
o Prolapse.
o Stenosis (narrowing).
o Para-colostomy hernia.

Living with a Stoma


 Diet:
o Normal diet, high fiber, avoid gas-producing foods (broccoli, cabbage).
o Drink 8–10 cups of water daily.
o Limit caffeine.
 Work: Return when safe; may need support to prevent hernia.
 Exercise: Walking, cycling, swimming recommended. Empty pouch before.
 Bathing/Swimming: Use waterproof tape; always wear pouch.
 Relationships: Anxiety is normal; adaptation needed.
 Travel: Carry extra supplies; keep them in carry-on luggage.
 Clothing: No special clothes required, avoid tight waistbands on stoma.

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