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The Specialist Sisters in Stoma Care will see all patients before a colostomy operation, and will give you detailed information (including printed information). Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about colostomy.

 

 

 

What is a colostomy?

A colostomy is a surgically created opening into the colon, which is then brought out at skin level (called a stoma).

 

 

 

Why are colostomies necessary?

Colostomies are performed either when a person's rectum is diseased and needs to be bypassed, or when it is not possible to pass stools through the rectum because all or part of it has been removed.

 

 

 

Why is a colostomy bag necessary?

The rectum has a sphincter muscle to control its opening and closing. A colostomy does not, however, have a sphincter; therefore, someone who has a colostomy does not have this control over their bowel movements. It is therefore necessary to attach a bag to the stoma to collect the stools.

 

 

 

Will I smell if I have a colostomy?

No, all the bags are odourproof.

 

 

 

Can I eat 'normally' if I have a colostomy?

Generally speaking, yes.

 

 

 

Can I lead a normal life if I have a colostomy?

Yes, the colostomy itself does not prevent you doing ANYTHING you would normally do.

 

 

 

 

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