Care for cancer patients with artificial openings

- Colostomy

Colostomy is a surgical procedure where part of the colon is connected to the abdominal wall, leaving the patient with an opening called a "colostomy." This opening is formed from the end of the removed part of the colon, which is stitched to the skin at the edges of the incision. This is the main exit for food waste, which is collected in special plastic bags either temporarily or permanently, with changes as needed.

There are two types of colostomy surgery:

• Terminal Colostomy: When the opening is made at the end of the colon, and the other part of the colon is either removed or stitched shut.
• Loop Colostomy: This is often used in emergencies, and the opening is temporary and larger, where a loop of the intestine is brought to the abdominal wall and fixed in place with an external device. The intestine is then stitched to the abdomen, creating two openings: one for stool and the other for mucus.