Colostomy
Alternate Names : Intestinal Opening
DefinitionColostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening (stoma) on the abdomen for the drainage of stool from the large intestine (colon). The procedure is usually done after bowel resections or injuries and it may be temporary or permanent.
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Overview & Description
The procedure is done while the patient is under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). An incision is made in the abdomen and the bowel resection or repair is performed as needed.
For the colostomy, the proximal (nearer to the small intestine) end of the healthy bowel tissue is then passed through the abdominal wall, and the edges are stitched to the skin of the abdominal wall. An adhesive drainage bag (stoma appliance) is placed around the opening. The abdominal incision is closed.
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