Reasons for colostomy

A colostomy is a procedure that creates an opening on the abdomen wall and brings either the side or end of the colon to the opening. Getting the end of the colon to the abdomen wall results in an end colostomy. This is because, as it sounds, it is bringing the end of the colon to the front through the abdominal cavity created. Many temporary ostomies bring the side of the colon up to the opening. The need for an ostomy can vary from reason to reason, but mainly they will be needed due to different diseases and defects.

The first defect to look at is a birth defect called the imperforate anus. This is a birth defect in children that does not allow them to have proper bowel movements. The condition can be a result of the anal cavity being too small or in the wrong place, which can cause painful bowel movements or constipation. This condition can also be a result of a missing anal opening altogether. In cases like this, chronic infections occur. Colostomy surgery is the only route to go when this happens. After this surgery, most if not all children who have been affected by this condition are able to gain control of their bowel movements. There is a boot camp for outpatients to help the children become comfortable and confident with their new pouch. 

Rectal or colon cancer is another reason for needing colostomy surgery. Colon cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the large intestine. Colon cancer typically happens to older adults, but it can happen at any age. It usually begins as tiny lumps of cells in the large intestine that eventually form into polyps. These polyps over time can become cancerous, thus leading to colon cancer. When colon cancer develops, bowel movements become more complex, you may even notice a difference in stool structure. A colostomy surgery can be done to help ease the pain people may experience from cancer. 

Another reason someone may need a colostomy surgery is due to an injury or trauma sustained to the colon or rectum. An example of this could be getting a soccer ball kicked into your stomach very hard; this injury could lead to the need for colostomy surgery. This is not the only kind of injury that will cause the need for a colostomy bag. Any type of trauma or significant injury will result in needing this surgery. 

There are more ways that will require an ostomy surgery however these are just a few examples. The reason for the colostomy helps the healthcare provider what kind of colostomy needs to be done, whether that is an end ostomy or just a normal colostomy. In some cases, the colon just needs a break, so a healthcare provider will separate it to make a colostomy. Some colostomy can be temporary, but as mentioned before, the kind of injury, disease, and birth defects. Permanent colostomies are required for more severe or incurable problems such as cancer. This will require an end colostomy as the problem will continue until the cancer is treated and the patient is in the clear. Recently I have been grateful for my good health. I hope I do not need to get an ostomy surgery, but I know people who have them are happy as it saved their life and removed their pain.