Ostomy
An ostomy is a surgical procedure in which an opening is created in the body for the discharge of body wastes. The term ostomy is used to describe both the procedure and the opening that is created during the procedure.
An ostomy is done when the digestive system or urinary system is unable to remove waste from the body. The doctor attaches the end of the small or large intestine or the end of the ureter to the outside of the body. The point at which the ureter or intestine protrudes from the abdominal wall is called the stoma. Through this opening, waste can leave the body and flow into a collection system for disposal.
Colostomy Pouch
A colostomy pouch (or bag) is worn on the outside of the body to collect waste that normally passes through the digestive system. The pouch is needed after a portion of the colon has been surgically removed.
Ostomy care: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You are vomiting.
- You have new or worse belly pain.
- You have a fever.
- You cannot pass stools or gas.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your stoma turns pale or changes color.
- Your stoma swells or bleeds.
- You have little or no waste going into your pouch.
How to empty your drainable ostomy pouch
A drainable ostomy pouch opens at one end to allow you to empty it. The pouch is usually held shut with a clip system.
It is best to empty the pouch when it is one-third to one-half full. This prevents the pouch from getting too full and heavy and pulling off. Many people routinely empty the pouch each time they urinate.
Here are the basic steps.
- Place some toilet paper in the bowl.
This can help prevent splashing.
- Sit down on the toilet with the pouch between your legs.
- Unclip the pouch and allow its contents to fall into the toilet.
- Clean the end of the pouch with toilet paper.
- Reclip the pouch.
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