Colostomy is colon surgery, who needs it?

Small children or adults who have difficulty defecating (BAB) for days are usually advised to do a colostomy. A colostomy is a type of major surgery that is performed to treat various diseases and conditions, especially those related to the large intestine. So, who should undergo this surgical procedure and what are the conditions? Come on, find out in the following review.

What is a colostomy?

Simply put, a colostomy is an operation to make a hole in the stomach to remove dirt, aka feces. This type of surgery is often referred to as bowel diversion therapy, because the purpose of a colostomy is to replace the function of the large intestine to accommodate and remove feces.

This operation is done by opening one end of the large intestine, then connecting it to an opening or hole (stoma) in the abdominal wall, usually on the left side of the stomach. Stool will no longer come out through the anus, but through the hole, aka the stoma, in the abdominal wall.

After that, a colostomy bag will be attached to the stomach hole to accommodate the stool that comes out. This bag needs to be changed regularly after the stool is full so that it doesn't cause infection.

There is a slight difference in the shape of the stool that passes through the anus and the abdominal opening. The difference is, the stool that comes out may not be as thick as when it comes out through the anus, but tends to be softer or more fluid. However, this also depends on the health condition of each patient.

Who needs a colostomy?

Colostomy procedures are usually performed on people who have problems with the lower intestine. This condition causes stool to be difficult to pass from the large intestine and over time can endanger health.

The causes can be various. Among them are:

1. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as colitis and Crohn's disease.
2. Inflammation of the sac of the large intestine (diverticulitis).
3. Colon cancer.
4. Colonic polyps, which are the growth of extra tissue in the large intestine that can turn into cancer.
5. Atresia ani, which is a condition when the baby's large intestine has not been fully formed so that it becomes blocked and very narrow.
6. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a bowel disorder that causes diarrhea, flatulence, constipation, and upset stomach.

Colostomy can be temporary or permanent, depending on the condition of each patient. Permanent surgery is usually performed when the patient is unable to defecate normally due to cancer, adhesions, or removal of several parts of the colon.

If a problem with the colon is causing the patient pain, for example due to colon cancer, then permanent surgery is possible. This means that the hole or stoma in the abdominal wall will continue to be left open. So, the patient can only defecate through the hole for life.

Meanwhile, children with congenital defects usually need a temporary colostomy. After the colon has improved or healed, the stoma opening can be closed and bowel function will return to normal.

The risks and side effects of the colostomy procedure

Colostomy is a major type of surgery that requires anesthesia. As with any surgery, there is a risk of side effects that may occur after the operation. Ranging from allergic reactions to anesthesia to the colostomy bag factor itself.

As you probably already know, human feces, aka human feces, contain bacteria and waste substances that must be disposed of immediately. In people who undergo this type of surgery, the stool is no longer passed through the anus but through a hole in the stomach.

As a result, the dirt that comes out can cause irritation and inflammation in the area around the abdominal opening. A colostomy bag that is attached to the stomach can also have the same effect.

In addition, the risks of other side effects that may occur after colostomy surgery are:

• Skin irritation
• Damage to other organs around the large intestine
• Hernia
• Bleeding inside the stomach
• The intestine protrudes through the stoma more than it should
• Scar tissue appears and clogged the intestines
• Open sores in the area around the large intestine

However, before the operation begins, the doctor will certainly tell you all the information about the colostomy. Starting from the stages, benefits, side effects, to the risk of complications that may occur.

Take it easy, believe that the doctor will definitely provide all the best for you. If you still have questions or doubts, don't be afraid to talk to your surgeon.

What to do after colostomy surgery

You are usually advised to stay for 3-7 days from before the operation until the recovery period. To speed up recovery, make sure you really rest your body to the maximum while being hospitalized.

On the first day after surgery, you will usually be asked to suck on an ice cube to help reduce thirst. After that, you will be given liquid food to soft food gradually to keep your digestive system stable after surgery.

You will also be taught how to properly use a colostomy bag. Remember, really pay attention to the instructions from doctors and hospital staff on how to install and replace it properly. That way, the risk of infection that may occur after surgery can be avoided.