Colostomie
**Colostomy**
A colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening (stoma) in the abdomen to bypass a portion of the colon or rectum. This is necessary when the organ is diseased or damaged. Through the stoma, waste is collected in a pouch worn on the abdomen.
**Indications:**
* Obstructed or damaged colon/rectum due to:
* Colon cancer
* Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease)
* Diverticular disease
* Trauma
**Types:**
* **Terminal colostomy:** The entire colon is bypassed.
* **Loop colostomy:** Only a portion of the colon is bypassed.
* **Double-barrel colostomy:** Both ends of the colon are brought out separately.
**Benefits:**
* Relieves intestinal blockage or incontinence
* Allows for healing and recovery of the diseased/damaged colon
* Improves quality of life
**Procedure:**
* General anesthesia is administered.
* An incision is made in the abdomen to access the colon.
* A portion of the colon is isolated and the stoma is created.
* The stoma is then connected to a pouch.
**Recovery:**
* Typically takes 4-8 weeks.
* Includes wound care, stoma management, and dietary adjustments.
* Physical activity should be gradually increased.
**Complications:**
* Infection
* Bleeding
* Prolapse or retraction of the stoma
* Stenosis or narrowing of the stoma
* Parastomal hernia
Gastrointestinal Fistula: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
A gastrointestinal fistula (GIF) is an abnormal opening in your digestive tract that causes gastric fluids to seep through the lining of your stomach or intestines. If you have a GIF, you’re more at risk for infection when these fluids…