Le stomas are surgical procedures that allow the diversion of the normal flow of faeces or urine towards an opening created on the abdomen, called a stoma. These are essential procedures to ensure survival and improve the quality of life of many people affected by diseases of the colon, rectum, bladder, or other conditions that compromise the normal function of the intestines or urinary tract. Depending on the organ involved, they are classified as:
- Colostomia e ileostomia, che interessano l’apparato digerente.
- Urostomia, che riguarda invece l’apparato urinario.
Colostomy
A colostomy is a surgically created opening in the colon, that is, the large intestine, designed to allow faeces to pass out of the body. During the operation, a section of the intestine is brought to the surface of the abdomen and attached to the skin, forming a stoma: the orifice through which faecal matter is safely expelled, thanks to a dedicated collection system. The position of the colostomy varies according to the clinical reason and the section of the colon involved, chosen by the surgeon based on the needs of each individual patient. The stoma appears pink, moist, and healthy, a sign of good blood supply. It has no nerve endings, so it is insensitive to touch and pain. The amount, frequency, and consistency of faeces may vary from person to person, influenced both by the site of the stoma and by diet and general bowel condition.
Ileostomy
An ileostomy is a surgical opening created on the abdomen connected to the small intestine, specifically the ileum, the final part of the small intestine. Unlike a colostomy, which involves the colon, an ileostomy allows stool to pass when the colon can no longer perform its natural function. During the procedure, a section of the ileum is brought through the abdominal wall, turned outward, and attached to the skin, forming a stoma, the opening through which intestinal contents are expelled.
The stoma appears bright red and moist, a sign of good blood supply, and it has no nerve endings, so it is insensitive to touch and pain. Compared to a colostomy, an ileostomy produces a more continuous flow and generally more liquid stool, due to its higher position in the intestine and the lower fluid absorption capacity of the small bowel. The amount, frequency, and consistency of stool may vary depending on the position of the stoma, diet, and the general condition of the intestines.
Urostomy
A urostomy is a surgical procedure that diverts the normal flow of urine towards an opening on the abdomen. It is performed when the bladder can no longer function properly, for example after surgical removal or due to conditions that compromise its activity, allowing the body to eliminate urine safely and continuously.
During the operation, the surgeon uses a short section of the small intestine to create a small channel through which urine can flow. The ureters, which normally carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, are attached to one end of the conduit, while the other end is brought to the surface of the abdomen, forming the stoma. In this case too, the stoma appears pink and moist, a sign of good vascularisation, and it has no sensory nerve endings, so it does not cause pain when touched or during cleaning. The urostomy allows a continuous flow of urine, which is collected in a special bag connected to the stoma, designed to provide safety, comfort, and discretion in everyday life.
Daily management: stoma bags
Today, thanks to advances in medical device technology, people living with a stoma can lead a completely normal life. This is made possible by the use of a dedicated collection system, the so-called stoma bags. Modern bags are discreet, secure, and water-resistant, allowing people to shower, swim, or go to the beach without risk. The materials used ensure a perfect fit, comfort, and odour control, enabling users to play sports, travel, and take part in social life without limitations. These devices collect faeces or urine safely, protecting the surrounding skin and offering the user discretion and freedom in daily activities.
Next topic: stomal stenosis
Stomas, whatever their type, require constant attention and care to maintain good function and prevent complications. Among these, one of the most common is stenosis, or the narrowing of the cutaneous or fascial opening of the stoma, which can make the normal passage of faeces or urine difficult. In the next article, we will explore this topic further: we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for stenosis, with a particular focus on the treatments currently available to keep the stoma open and functional over time.
The contents of this page are for informational purposes only and should in no way replace the advice, diagnosis, or treatment prescribed by your physician. Responses to the same treatment may vary from patient to patient. Always consult your doctor regarding any information related to diagnoses and treatments, and meticulously follow their instructions.
