Understanding Ostomy Surgery: What You Need to Know
Ostomy surgery is a life-changing procedure that helps individuals cope with conditions affecting the digestive or urinary system. For people with certain health conditions, ostomy surgery can provide relief and improve their quality of life. However, understanding the procedure and the adjustments it may require is essential. In this blog post, we will break down what ostomy surgery is, the types of ostomies, what to expect during the recovery process, and tips for adapting to life with an ostomy.
What is Ostomy Surgery?
An ostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening (stoma) in the abdomen to divert the flow of waste from the body. This is typically done when a person’s natural bodily functions are no longer able to work properly due to illness, injury, or disease. The stoma allows waste to exit the body into a collection pouch attached to the outside of the body.
Ostomy surgery can be performed for various reasons, including conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, cancer (especially colorectal cancer), diverticulitis, and injury to the digestive tract.
Types of Ostomy Surgery
There are different types of ostomies depending on which part of the digestive or urinary system is affected. The main types include:
Colostomy
A colostomy involves creating an opening in the colon (large intestine). The procedure is often necessary when there is a blockage, infection, or disease that affects the large intestine. This type of ostomy may be temporary or permanent, depending on the underlying condition.
Ileostomy
An ileostomy involves the small intestine (ileum) and is typically performed when there is damage to the colon or rectum. The ileum is brought to the surface of the abdomen to create the stoma. Like the colostomy, an ileostomy can be temporary or permanent.
Urostomy
A urostomy is performed when there is a need to divert urine due to problems with the bladder, ureters, or kidneys. A urostomy creates an opening in the urinary tract to allow urine to be drained into a collection bag.
Jejunostomy
A jejunostomy is a less common ostomy, where a part of the small intestine (jejunum) is used to create an opening. This is typically used for patients who cannot eat or absorb food properly due to gastrointestinal issues.
What to Expect Before and After Ostomy Surgery
Before Surgery
Before undergoing ostomy surgery, a thorough consultation with your doctor and a specialized nurse is essential. Your healthcare team will explain the procedure, the type of ostomy you’ll have, and how the recovery process will unfold. It’s a good idea to learn about how to manage the ostomy pouch and the necessary changes in lifestyle.
During Surgery
The surgery itself typically takes several hours, and general anesthesia is used to ensure the patient is comfortable. Depending on the type of surgery, the recovery time and hospital stay can vary.
After Surgery
Recovery from ostomy surgery involves both physical and emotional adjustments. Initially, you may experience pain, swelling, or discomfort at the surgical site, but this typically improves as you heal. Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your stoma and manage the ostomy pouch.
Managing Life with an Ostomy
Adjusting to life with an ostomy may feel overwhelming at first, but with the right guidance and support, many people go on to live fulfilling, active lives. Here are some tips to help:
Learning to Care for Your Stoma and Pouch
Proper care of the stoma and pouch is essential to prevent skin irritation and leaks. Your ostomy nurse will teach you how to clean the stoma, change the pouch, and ensure the seal is tight. It may take a bit of practice, but over time, it will become second nature.
Diet and Nutrition
After surgery, you may need to adjust your diet to ensure proper digestion and waste elimination. Some foods may irritate your stoma, while others may help with digestion. Your healthcare provider may give you a list of foods to avoid and suggestions for a balanced, healthy diet.
Exercise and Physical Activity
Many people with ostomies are able to engage in regular physical activity, including walking, swimming, and even running. It’s important to start slow and consult your doctor before beginning any intense workouts or lifting heavy objects.
Emotional Support
It’s common for individuals to experience emotional challenges after ostomy surgery. Feelings of anxiety, embarrassment, or depression are normal as you adjust to the changes. Seek emotional support from family, friends, or a counselor who can help you navigate the transition. Support groups, either online or in-person, can also be an invaluable resource.
Clothing and Appearance
You might initially be concerned about how the ostomy pouch will affect your appearance or the types of clothing you can wear. Fortunately, many people with ostomies find that they can wear normal clothing and engage in their usual activities without restriction. There are specialized products available, such as ostomy belts and covers, to help make the pouch less noticeable and more comfortable.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Skin Irritation
Skin irritation around the stoma can be a common issue, but with proper care, it can usually be avoided. Using the right adhesive and making sure the pouch fits securely around the stoma can help prevent skin problems.
Leaks
Leaks can occur if the pouch is not sealed properly, if there’s too much gas or stool buildup, or if the pouch becomes too full. Monitoring your pouch regularly and changing it before it becomes too full will reduce the risk of leaks.
Gas and Odor
Some people with ostomies worry about gas and odor, but modern ostomy pouches are designed to be odor-proof and leak-resistant. Certain foods can contribute to gas buildup, so it may be helpful to adjust your diet and talk to your doctor about odor control products.
Ordering ostomy supplies before surgery planning is an important step to ensure you're prepared for your recovery. Here's a general process to follow:
-
Consult with your healthcare provider:
Your doctor, surgeon, or ostomy nurse will provide recommendations based on your surgery and individual needs. They might suggest specific brands, types, and sizes of ostomy supplies that will suit you.
2. Choose a Medical Supply Company:
You’ll need to select a supplier to order your ostomy products from. Many companies offer home delivery and have online ordering services. Some well-known options include:
Hollister
Coloplast
Convatec
Smith & Nephew
OstomySupplyShop.com
Emerdepot.com You can also order through pharmacies or insurance providers. Check if the company works with your insurance to ensure the costs are covered.
3. Choose the Right Products:
There are different types of ostomy bags, pouches, wafers, and accessories depending on your procedure (colostomy, ileostomy, urostomy). Here’s a list of common supplies you may need:
Ostomy Pouches/Bags: There are one-piece and two-piece systems. You'll need to know which one your surgeon recommends for your situation.
Skin Barriers (Wafer): This is applied to the skin around the stoma and helps create a secure seal between the skin and the ostomy bag.
Flanges: These are part of a two-piece system that connects the pouch to the skin barrier.
Stoma Paste or Powder: Used for sealing gaps around the stoma to prevent leaks.
Deodorants and Odor Control Products: Special products for controlling odor inside the pouch.
Drainage Bags: For urostomies, for example, you may need larger drainage bags.
Additional accessories: These could include belts, filters, wipes, or skin-care products to protect the area.
4. Order a Sample Pack:
Many companies offer sample packs of different ostomy bags or products. These can help you determine what works best for your body, stoma, and lifestyle before committing to a larger order.
5. Set Up Delivery:
Most companies can ship your ostomy supplies directly to your home. Be sure to plan ahead and allow enough time to receive your order before surgery.
Ask for bulk orders if you anticipate needing a lot of supplies in the future or if you have long-term care plans.
6. Prepare for Recovery:
Once the supplies arrive, ensure you are familiar with how to use them. Practice with the ostomy pouching system before surgery to feel comfortable managing it.
Ask your ostomy nurse or healthcare provider for a demonstration if needed.
7. Order Regular Refills:
After surgery, you’ll likely need to order supplies regularly. Some medical supply companies offer subscription services that automatically send refills, so you don’t have to worry about running out.
By planning ahead and ordering the right supplies, you’ll be better prepared for the postoperative phase and can focus on recovery.
Final Thoughts
Ostomy surgery is a significant step, but it provides many people with the opportunity to live healthier, more comfortable lives despite the challenges posed by their medical conditions. It’s important to have a support system, educate yourself about the procedure, and seek guidance from healthcare professionals to ensure that you have the resources needed for a smooth recovery and transition.
With proper care, knowledge, and support, living with an ostomy is entirely manageable, and many people find they can return to their normal daily routines and enjoy their lives once again.
If you or someone you know is preparing for ostomy surgery, remember that you are not alone. Reach out to support groups, healthcare providers, and friends to help guide you through this journey.
