Try adjusting your type
14th October, 2009
European Survey on Standards of Care in paediatric oncology centres. J. R. Kowalczyk, M. Samardakiewicz, K. Pritchard-Jones, R. Ladenstein, S. Essiaf, E. Fitzgerald, G. Petrarulo, G. Vassal - EJC , Volume 61, pp 11-19
8th December, 2014
The purpose of this website is to provide good and clear information about the long-term effects of childhood cancer and to refer to the various late-effects outpatient clinics (LATER outpatient clinics) that exist in the Netherlands.
8th September, 2015
Cancer in young people is rare, but it is still a major health issue in Europe. Each year, more than 6,000 young people in Europe die of cancer. There are more than 300,000 European childhood cancer survivors (in 2020, they will be nearly half a million): two-thirds of them have some late side effects of treatment, that are severe and impact on the daily life of half of those affected.
A colostomy is a surgical procedure where a portion of the large intestine, or colon, is brought through the abdominal wall to create a stoma. It’s done in response to various diseases or injuries to bypass a damaged part of the colon. The stoma serves as an alternative exit point for body waste, which is collected in an external pouch.
Facing a colostomy can be daunting. The thoughts of living with a stoma and managing a colostomy bag may seem overwhelming. However, understanding what a colostomy is, why it’s needed, and how it impacts daily life can provide comfort, facilitate acceptance and foster resilience. This comprehensive overview aims to demystify colostomy, address common concerns, and provide reassurance for individuals embarking on this life-altering journey.
Firstly, a colostomy refers to a surgical procedure that creates an alternative pathway for waste elimination from the body. This is accomplished by forming a stoma, a surgically created opening on the abdomen, which connects to the colon. The opening allows waste to exit the body into an externally attached bag.
There are three primary types of colostomies, each with a distinct surgical technique and intended purpose:
The colostomy procedure largely involves general anesthesia, surgical incision on the abdomen, and formation of a stoma. The time to complete the surgery can vary from 1-4 hours depending on the complexity of the patient’s condition and the procedure type.
A colostomy becomes necessary due to various medical conditions that impede or prevent normal bowel functioning. These might include colon or rectum cancer, bowel obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, trauma, or congenital defects.
Whether a colostomy is temporary or permanent largely depends on the underlying condition that necessitates the surgery. A temporary colostomy serves a protective role, allowing the diseased or injured portion of the bowel to heal. Once healing is complete, the colostomy can be reversed in another operation. A permanent colostomy is required when the lower part of the colon or rectum has been removed and cannot be reconnected.
Anyone adjusting to life with a colostomy is bound to experience some changes. However, ample resources and support are available to manage these changes and ensure a continued good quality of life.
Daily care primarily involves managing and emptying the colostomy bag, as well as maintaining hygiene to prevent infection. With time, these tasks typically become routine.
As with any surgery, colostomy has potential complications. In the short term, these could include surgical site infection or issues with the stoma, such as irritation, bleeding or a blockage. Long-term risks can include hernias, prolapse of the stoma, or skin problems around the stoma.
While an adjustment, life with a colostomy can still be rich and fulfilling. The key lies in understanding the procedure, knowing what to expect, and learning how to manage daily life post-surgery. Through education, resilience, and a supportive healthcare team, individuals with a colostomy can navigate this significant life change confident of maintaining their quality of life.
Yes, a person can live a regular life after a colostomy, which includes working, exercising, and participating in social activities.
Dietary adjustments largely depend on the individual and the state of their digestive system after the operation. Some people might need to follow a low-fiber diet initially with the gradual reintroduction of higher-fiber foods with time.
With some planning, exercise, and travel are possible and even encouraged. For exercise, a protective belt or an ostomy support garment can secure the colostomy bag. For travel, bringing extra supplies is usually sufficient.
Whether a colostomy can be reversed or not largely depends on the reason for the initial surgery. Temporary colostomies are often reversed once the underlying area has healed.
Maintaining stoma and skin hygiene typically involves regular cleaning of the stoma, skin, and equipment within a scheduled routine.
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