A stoma is a Greek word that means “mouth” or “opening.” A stoma is a hole in the abdomen that can be connected to either your digestive or urinary systems, allowing waste to be drained from your body.

Surgical techniques involving the formation of an artificial stoma are commonly referred to as “-ostomy” operations, and the same names are frequently used to refer to the stoma formed. There are various Stoma care products available in the market, that make life easier for people suffering from medical conditions. But it is highly recommended to never compromise on the quality and always choose best for yourself, like stoma products at ConvaTec offers a wide range of premium products to choose from.

Types of ostomies

The term “colostomy,” for example, can refer to either a prosthetic anus or the operation that makes one. There are various types of ostomies, such as,

• A colostomy is a connection between the large intestine and the abdominal wall that allows feces to bypass the anal canal.
• Urostomy – a connection between the urinary system and the abdominal wall that leads to a ‘urinary conduit,’ allowing urine to bypass the urethra and flow directly into a stoma bag.
• An ileostomy is a small intestine-to-abdominal-wall connection that allows stool to bypass the big intestine and the anal canal.
• Gastrostomy and jejunostomy are holes in the abdominal wall between the stomach and the jejunum, which are mostly used for enteral feeding tubes.

Why would someone need a stoma?

There are a variety of reasons why you might require a stoma. Bowel cancer, bladder cancer, inflammatory intestinal disease, diverticulitis, or a bladder or bowel obstruction are all common causes. Depending on the reason, a stoma might be temporary or permanent.

What to expect after surgery? 

The majority of patients will eventually be able to manage their stomas on their own. They can generally change their diet to alleviate any output-related issues. However, medication may be required to alleviate issues, and the effect of any medications on the stoma must be taken into account. Medication is needed, for example for the relief of diarrhea, for relief of constipation, etc.

You’ll be advised on how to care for your stoma and ostomy appliance after surgery. You’ll need to relax for a few days after you leave the hospital and avoid intense activity for a few weeks. For the first few months, your doctor may urge you to eat a low-fiber diet as your body adjusts.

You may notice a lot of gas in the first several weeks after surgery, which is quite normal. During the first several months, your stoma may also shrink, which is typical and part of the healing process. After surgery, most people may return to work in six to eight weeks.

Some post-surgery complications

Even though stomas are a reasonably common and safe surgery, there are certain risks. These are some of them:

• Irritation of the skin

 The adhesive on your ostomy equipment is to blame for this typical condition. Change the appliance you’re using or the adhesive you’re using.

• Leakage

Your stoma appliance may leak if it doesn’t fit properly. If this occurs, you will most likely require a replacement appliance that fits better.

• Dehydration

 Dehydration might occur if you have a lot of waste exiting through your stoma. In most situations, rehydrating yourself with extra fluids would suffice, but severe cases may necessitate hospitalization. Dehydration can be avoided by avoiding diets heavy in sugar, salt, and fat.

• Retraction

 Your stoma may shift inside as a result of weight gain, scar tissue, or poor positioning. Accessory goods for your appliance can help, but in severe situations, a new stoma may be required.

• Necrosis

Tissue death occurs when blood flow to your stoma is limited or cut off, resulting in necrosis. This commonly happens within the first few days after surgery.