Most colostomy stool is softer and more liquid that normally passed stool, and depends on the location of the intestinal segment used. Hospital stay is estimated to be 7 to 10 days. After 2 to 3 days, the patient will be able to resume eating. Healing may take 1 to 2 months. Learning to clean the abdomen and change the colostomy bag will be necessary.
Most people can eventually change the bag at regular and convenient times.
Physical activities are encouraged to strengthen the abdominal wall muscles. Patients who are younger, sicker, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment. Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance. After the surgical removal of part or all of the colon, the intestine is connected to the surface of the abdomen to allow digested food to exit the body. A loop of bowel has been brought out through the abdominal wall in this photograph.