What Is an Ostomy? Meaning :
An ostomy is a surgical procedure in which an opening (called a stoma) is created in the body to allow waste products, such as stool or urine, to exit the body when normal pathways (like the intestines or urinary tract) are not functioning properly. This is often done when the digestive or urinary systems are severely damaged due to disease, injury, or infection.
Types of Ostomy Surgeries
There are several types of ostomy surgeries, each designed for different medical needs:
1. Colostomy: This involves creating a stoma from the colon, allowing waste to exit the body into a collection bag.
2. Ileostomy: Here, a part of the small intestine (the ileum) is brought to the abdominal surface to create a stoma. This is used when the colon is damaged or removed.
3. Urostomy: This surgery redirects urine from the kidneys into a bag outside the body, often due to bladder issues.
4. Continent Ileostomy: This involves creating an internal pouch from the ileum that stores waste, which is emptied using a catheter through the stoma.
5. Ileoanal Pouch Surgery (IPAA): This is a complex surgery where part of the ileum is used to create a pouch that allows for normal bowel movements, often following the removal of the colon.
What Is an Ostomy Bag?
An ostomy bag is a crucial part of ostomy care. It is a plastic pouch that collects stool or urine from the stoma. Depending on the type of ostomy, the bag can be used for either bowel waste (colostomy, ileostomy) or urinary waste (urostomy). These bags come in two main types:
- One-piece pouches: The bag and skin barrier are integrated into one unit, making them easier to apply and remove.
- Two-piece pouches: These have a separate skin barrier and bag, allowing for easier emptying and reattaching of the bag without disturbing the skin barrier.
Some ostomy bags come with a night drainage system for urostomies, allowing urine to be drained into a separate container during sleep.
Are Ostomy Bags Permanent?
Whether an ostomy bag is permanent depends on the individual’s medical condition. In some cases, the bag is temporary, used while the intestines or urinary tract heal. In other cases, such as with chronic conditions, the ostomy may be permanent.
Living with an ostomy bag requires adjustment, but many individuals lead a full, active life with proper care and support.