What is a colostomy procedure?

Have you ever heard of a colostomy? Don’t worry, it’s not some kind of weird tree or an obscure mathematical equation. A colostomy is a surgical procedure that involves bringing one end of the large intestine through the abdominal wall to create an opening called stoma.

If you or someone you know has been recommended for this procedure, keep reading for all the information you’re going to need!

What Is It For?

Although everyone’s experience is unique and personal to them, here are some common reasons why people undergo colostomies:

Cancer

Cancerous growths in your colon can completely block your bowel movements. A surgeon may recommend removing part of your colon and replacing it with a colostomy bag if other treatments fail.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease causes inflammation throughout your digestive system resulting in chronic diarrhea, bloody stools, decreased appetite, and weight loss.

Diverticulitis

Diverticula are pockets that form in the walls of our large intestines; these pockets can become inflamed or infected leading to severe pain which would require surgery.

Getting Ready

Before undergoing this procedure there are plenty of things you’ll need to do as preparation. Some tips include:

  • When visiting family/friends ensure that they have tissues available – you’re about produce something out-of-the-ordinary.
  • Invest time getting comfortable discussing bodily functions. You will be speaking freely so get used it!
  • Engage support groups; no better way learn than from others experiencing similar journeys!

All jokes aside though: Try not only shopping locally but purchasing products aids patient’s accessibility/quality living post-surgery https://www.coloplast.us/.

Remember not everything needs to change when living with stoma bags such as collecting dirt samples outside bird feeding stations – SAVOUR each moment life presents you.

Nutritional Recommendations

There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to colostomy nutrition but you’ll benefit from focusing on high protein, properly cooked/puréed fruit/vegetable and any other dietary recommendations that your doctor makes.

Most importantly
Drink lots of fluids & reduce caffeinated drinks
Hydrate with water prior to activity especially exercising
Avoid overly spicy food or pungent herbs (we know they smell delicious)

The Surgical Procedure

Wondering what actually happens during the surgery? Well let me give you a brief peep into the world behind operating room doors…

Preparing for Surgery

During preparation:
– Empty bowels thoroughly through washing out bowel.
– Abstain from food/drink including medication due to complications which may arise under anaesthetic drugs

FYI: At this point in time panic would have set in! It’s natural we all react differently – stay calm!!!

Once arrived at hospital just make sure you’re restful AF as both anticipation and anxiety levels will raise higher than Biggie Smalls ever did…

The Actual Procedure!

Phew got past worrying about being Ok post-operatively? Good news – doesn’t hurt much only slight soreness; far easier then pulling teeth!

  1. To start, structures are identified needing attention e.g diseased part of the colon.
  2. A section of intestine proximal(directly before) removed area needing treatment/stoma location.. Depending upon length needed for segmental resections – don’t be afraid to inquire further if any confusion arises concerning need/end-result for procedure

  3. A hole made on side abdomen wall normally left lower quadrant , through which exposed end is drawn outside body;
    4.Surgeon prunes cut edges attaching lowest portion ileum(closes)
    5.Will typically pass stool via rectum unless otherwise instructed

Welcome to a new era!

Adjusting To Life Post Procedure

Before being able to venture back out into the world, ther are some adjustments that you’re going to need to make:

  • Protect your skin as best you can against stoma output (From constipation/pouch fitting)
    Applying with adhesive barrier cream will help reduce chances of irritation.
  • Keep doing regular exercise and treating yourself well.
    (Eg: Wear loose clothing avoid tight belts etc.)!

Once this procedure is done (which can take approximately four months), continue meeting up/ talking with doctor/specialist/nurse for care education.

Sometimes life goes in different directions than originally planned but focusing on what matters most along that journey will be worth it.

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