What are Ostomies?
Various diseases can prevent intestinal transit, either due to obstruction of the lumen of the intestine or narrowing of the tube that makes passage difficult, so the affected parts of the intestine will have to be cut in order to reconstruct it. The creation of a stoma is necessary to isolate a part of the intestine from the passage of feces, promoting the healing of this new union.
It is surgically constructed by suturing the intestine to the skin of the abdomen, diverting the passage of intestinal contents into a bag that collects them. The presence of an ostomy always involves isolating the anal sphincter, so that the exit of contents is continuous and cannot be controlled by the patient.
This requires learning new skills and knowledge. Simple techniques whose purpose is the best possible quality of life, with the least interference in daily life.
Parts of an Ostomy
Exteriorized intestinal mucosa
The stoma is pink, moist and shiny. It is similar in sensitivity and appearance to the mucous membrane that lines the inside of the mouth. It has no nerve endings so it does not hurt.
Mucocutaneous junction
This is the suture that joins the intestinal mucosa to the skin of the abdomen. The stitches are removed when the skin around the stoma has healed, which usually occurs between ten and fifteen days after surgery. Sometimes they fall off on their own, but there is no need to worry as long as the skin has healed.
Peristomal skin
This is the skin surrounding the stoma. Its care is essential to prevent leaks and ensure a good quality of life. It should maintain the same appearance as the skin on the rest of the abdomen.
Types of Ostomies
Colostomy
The portion of the intestine that opens onto the skin is the colon. It is necessary when the difficulty in passing is located in the rectum or final portion of the colon, and is generally caused by a tumor.
Because part of the colon is preserved, the contents of the bag will be similar to the normal formed stool before surgery.
The consistency will be more solid the further the intestinal contents travel through the colon.
Types and characteristics of feces
Ascending: on the right side of the abdomen. Uncommon, they are usually replaced by an ileostomy and the stools have characteristics similar to those of the ileostomy, that is, liquid.
Transverse: at the level of the transverse colon, towards the middle of the body. These are usually temporary colostomies. The stool is semi-liquid but continues to be irritating.
Sigmoid or descending : on the lower left side of the abdomen. Stools will be more similar to those passed through the anus, i.e. formed stools.
