Stoma Care

Stoma Care involves the management, maintenance, and care of a stoma, which is a surgically created opening on the body’s surface that connects an internal organ (like the intestines or urinary tract) to the outside environment. Stomas are commonly formed after surgeries such as colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy.

Types of Stomas:

• Colostomy: An opening in the abdominal wall connected to the colon, used for waste elimination.
• Ileostomy: An opening in the abdominal wall connected to the ileum (small intestine), used for waste elimination.
• Urostomy: An opening in the abdominal wall connected to the urinary system to allow urine to drain from the kidneys.

Purpose of a Stoma:

• To allow waste (urine or feces) to be eliminated when the normal route is blocked or removed due to conditions like cancer, injury, or chronic illness.
• To aid in healing after certain surgeries by bypassing a damaged part of the gastrointestinal or urinary tract.

When to See a General Surgeon:

• Complications: For management of complications such as stoma blockage, skin irritation, prolapse, or hernia.
• Stoma Revisions: When adjustments or corrections to the stoma site are needed.
• Support and Education: Guidance on long-term stoma care and adapting to living with a stoma.

General surgeons specialize in stoma care, providing both surgical and non-surgical management to ensure proper stoma function, comfort, and overall patient well-being.