Both an ileostomy and colostomy are surgical procedures used for creating an opening through the abdominal wall to remove solid waste from the body. A colostomy attaches the colon to an opening in the wall of the abdomen to create a stoma. It is performed for intestinal problems such as cancer of the colon, obstructive tumors, diverticular disease, and severe abdominal wounds. It may be temporary or permanent.
Patients lead normal lives and learn how to empty their colon by using a special collecting device.
They also learn about necessary dietary changes and how to clean and care for the stoma and its protective cover. An ileostomy connects the small intestine to an opening in the wall of the abdomen to create a stoma. It is required when the large intestine and rectum must be removed due to disease or abnormality. The opening becomes an artificial anus for expelling solid waste. The patient continuously wears a disposable bag that collects the semiliquid waste.