Question 1

colectomy without colostomy bag, can you tell me more?

Accepted Answer

Total: Colectomy, sparing the rectum and attaching the last portion of small intestine to the rectum. Can still defecate thru the rectum but stools may be looser and mor frequent than with an intact colon.

Question 2

could getting a colectomy mean i'll need a colostomy bag?

Accepted Answer

If it is an elective: Operation, only rarely, depends on location of abnormality for which the colectomy is being done.  If you need to have a complete procto-colectomy, yes, you would need a permanent colostomy.  In all other cases, a colostomy would usually be a temporary one, even if necessary.  If it is a right hemi-colectomy or an ileo-colectomy, chances of a stoma are very low.  Ask your surgeon for specifics.

Question 3

could getting a colectomy mean i'll have to get a colostomy bag?

Accepted Answer

No bag: A colostomy is performed when the bowel is resected and there is a significant length of proximal colon and minimal or no length of distal colon to bring the ends together as with an APR.  When a stoma is present, irrigations should be started on a daily basis and a square pad placed over the stoma.  With daily performance the colon will eventually function only when irrigation employed.

Question 4

could colostomy bags be temporary?

Accepted Answer

Yes: In the presence of a permanent colostomy, especially if the colostomy is in the distal bowel, daily irrigations and wearing a gauze pad can replace the need for a bag.  A colostomy nurse can train to irrigate.  After a while the stoma will not function unless irrigation is employed.

Question 5

why would  a colostomy be performed?

Accepted Answer

See below: There are many factors to consider. Usually a colostomy is performed because of an inability to safely reconnect the colon together. It could be due to disease, infection, cancer, radiation, poor tissues or ill health. If the colon leaked internally at a weak connection, then a serious and potentially life threatening infection can occur. The surgeon has many considerations to make at surgery.

Question 6

what should i expect after a colostomy?

Accepted Answer

Life goes on: Is it permanent? If so, you will need to make adjustments and expect some inconveniences.  You will be able to do mostly anything.  Work closely with a ostomy nurse from the start.  Support groups are helpful with good tips.

Question 7

how should i change a colostomy bag?

Accepted Answer

Colostomy bag: http://www.wocn.org/
this is a website and an excellent place to start to find all kinds of great information regarding this question. I think you should be able to find an ostomy nurse who is best qualified to help with your needs. Good luck.

Question 8

where can i get colostomy support girdle?

Accepted Answer

Yes: possible to have custom made truss like device if you can find one who will make it for you Such services are extinct . Current appliances are better made , easy to use ,  for colostomy are very effective will not emit odor , will not fall out  .

Question 9

how should i care for a colostomy patient?

Accepted Answer

Speak to the doc: I would recommend speaking your physician about what to expect in caring for someone with a colostomy.

Question 10

can you tell me what colostomy irrigation is?

Accepted Answer

What it sounds like: Basically an enema of a colostomy (usually left sided, descending or sigmoid colon- solid stool present).  Get info  and training from your ostomy nurse.

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Colectomy vs colostomy

A member asked:

Colectomy without colostomy bag, can you tell me more?

A member asked:

Could getting a colectomy mean i'll need a colostomy bag?

A member asked:

Could getting a colectomy mean i'll have to get a colostomy bag?

A member asked:

Could colostomy bags be temporary?

A member asked:

Why would a colostomy be performed?

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What should i expect after a colostomy?

A member asked:

How should i change a colostomy bag?

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Where can i get colostomy support girdle?

A member asked:

How should i care for a colostomy patient?

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Can you tell me what colostomy irrigation is?

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