What types of ostomies are there?

When we talk about ostomy, we mean surgery performed on the abdominal wall and intestines. Depending on the area where the problem is found, a type of ostomy will be performed. In this article, Ostocare makes it clear to you what the types of ostomy so what type of care needs each other.

The ostomy can be described as the exteriorization of the bowel, either small or large, and that is where the type of ostomy to be performed is defined. Below, we will tell you in detail what types of ostomies exist, as well as the post-operative care of patients who have been operated on with this surgery.

Types of ostomies

Depending on the case, an ostomy can be permanent or temporary, be in different locations and present different aspects depending on the anatomical location where the disease has developed.

If they are temporary, the ostomy is performed so that the patient can expel the material produced by their intestines while recovering from surgery. When the recovery is complete, the intestine is joined and the stoma is closed, so that the intestinal transit will return to normal.

When it is a permanent ostomy, it is only performed on patients who have irreversible damage to the intestine or rectum, therefore, closure of the stoma will not be possible. Thus, the patient should regularly use colostomy bags and girdles, among others ostomy products that have been designed to improve your quality of life.

Regardless of the types of ostomies, whether it is temporary or permanent, taking into account their location and part of the intestine affected, they can be classified into two types:

➡ Ileostomy

This surgery is done on the lower part of the small intestine (ileum), and is located on the right below the waist.

➡ Colostomy

A colostomy is performed on a part of the intestine that is connected to the colon. The colostomy also has a classification, they can be by location, by anatomy of the stoma and by duration.

When is an ostomy necessary?

This will always depend on the complexity of each particular case and it will be the doctor who decides within the types of ostomies that are performed, which is the most appropriate for the patient.  

In cases of diseases such as rectal cancer, colon cancer, intestinal infarction, diverculitis with peritonitis or intestinal trauma, the patient may need an ostomy that may be temporary. But in some cases, which are generally less common, such as complex tumors, ulcerative colitis, or low rectal cancer, permanent ostomies should be performed. 

Care for Ostomy Patients

After any of the types of ostomies have been performed, it is very important to have the necessary care to be able to have a good recovery in a short time.

After a colostomy or ileostomy, it is essential to have the right hygiene products, such as colostomy bags, bag covers, specialty underwearetc.

In addition, certain daily actions must be implemented so that the place where the patient is, either in the hospital or at home, is an adequate and completely clean space for recovery.

One factor to take into account is what should be avoided at all costs is that after having performed any of the types of ostomies, the skin of the stoma does not come into contact with the fecal matter, as this can cause irritations or infections in the patient.

This requires the use of the ostomy discs and bagsThe Commission shall ensure that no such contact is permitted and that the area is covered and protected.

It should be borne in mind that the life of each patient can have a radical change after this type of surgery, so a family atmosphere and empathy would be the most appropriate and comforting.

What is the patient's life like after the ostomy?

The change in the lives of people with ostomies can vary depending on their ability to cope with the changes and family support. It will also depend on the type of ostomy that was performed. But, in general, you can have a completely normal life if you acquire habits that will increase your quality of life.

One of the main recommendations is to have a varied and balanced diet. They should keep in mind that foods with a good nutritional intake are the basis for healthy nutrition and for people who have had an ostomy this is critical.

It should be noted that some foods that are healthy are not recommended for these patients, as they may promote an increase in stool or flatulence and should therefore be avoided. The distribution of food will vary from person to person. But to be sure of what they can consume or not, we recommend visiting a nutritionist.

Another area of concern for most patients with any type of ostomy is whether the people around them will notice that you have an ostomy pouch. You can rest assured that one of the differences of Ostocare products is that their discretion and comfort is almost absolute.

Our products have the advantage that they are discreet and greatly diminish the sound of the bag and the material inside. An important factor is that the wrap help conceal the bag, so no one will notice that you are wearing a garment.

At Ostocare our main goal is to provide all ostomy patients with a chance to exponentially increase their quality of life after an ostomy procedure. If you have any questions about our products, contact us immediatelywe're here to help you.