Colostomy bags have made the life of ostomates easier. Thanks to unlimited advancement in medical technology. Ostomates can do their daily routine task without any hurdle. Not only this, but other accessories like colostomy deodorizers have saved ostomates from embarrassing moments.

Despite so many benefits of colostomy bags, still, there are still some people who look for ways to avoid getting colostomy bags. Remember, Colostomy surgery may not be necessary for every individual dealing with colorectal cancers or bowel diseases. The decision to undergo ostomy surgery depends on the underlying reasons, and there are instances where it can be avoided.

In this informational article, we will discuss some ways which can help you to avoid getting colostomy bags. Let’s begin.

What is Colostomy?

A colostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening, called a stoma, in the abdominal wall to redirect a portion of the colon (large intestine) to the surface of the skin. This procedure is performed when there is a need to bypass or reroute a section of the colon, and it is often done to treat or manage certain medical conditions.

Reason of Colostomy

There are various reasons why a colostomy might be performed, including:

Colorectal Cancer: In cases where a portion of the colon is affected by cancer, removing that section and creating a colostomy can help manage the disease and allow waste to exit the body through the stoma.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis may require a colostomy to divert stool away from inflamed or diseased portions of the colon.
Trauma or Injury: Severe injuries to the colon, such as perforations or damage, may necessitate a colostomy to allow the affected area to heal.
Birth Defects: Some individuals may be born with conditions that affect the normal functioning of the digestive system, and a colostomy may be part of the treatment plan.

WHY WOULD SOMEONE NEED A COLOSTOMY BAG?

During a colostomy, the surgeon brings a portion of the colon to the abdominal surface, creating a stoma, which looks like a small, pinkish opening. To this opening, a bag called a colostomy bag or pouch is attached to the stoma to collect waste, which was previously passed through the rectum. Therefore, colostomy bags are used to give rest to the damaged or inflamed part of the colon.

After colostomy, the frequency and consistency of stool differ from the pre-surgery phase. Colostomy bags are proving to be very helpful in such situations.

HOW TO AVOID GETTING COLOSTOMY BAG?

It has been reported that the rate of colorectal cancer is increasing in people aged 20 to 40 years, which is the highly active labor population of the country who is using colostomy bags. A lot of people of this age group prefer to avoid getting a colostomy bag especially if it is permanent. they start looking for other alternatives.

COLOSTOMY BAGS CAN BE AVOIDED BY ADOPTING THE ALTERNATIVES MENTIONED BELOW:

Colectomy:

A colectomy is when doctors remove either the whole colon or part of it through surgery. Sometimes, instead of using a colostomy, they choose to do a colectomy. This happens when the colon is inflamed or damaged because of something like Crohn’s disease, but the rectum is still working fine.

In a total colectomy, the surgeon connects the ileum (the end of the small intestine) directly to the rectum without making a stoma in the abdomen. So there won’t be any need for a colostomy bag. They choose this method when it’s the right fit for the patient. In a partial colectomy, they join the remaining parts of the colon. This connection allows stool to go out through the anus, and there’s no need for a pouching system.

Doctors might go for a colectomy when they need to take out the inflamed part of the colon, but they can keep the normal way of getting rid of waste through the rectum. They decide between colectomy and colostomy based on what’s best for the person’s health condition, making sure to pick the treatment that works well and is suitable for them.

Colostomy irrigation:

Colostomy irrigation is a way to handle getting rid of poop without always having to wear a colostomy bag. But even if you use this method, you might still need a stoma cap to keep your skin safe from irritation.

Here’s how it works:

you connect a bag of water to your stoma, which helps clean out your colon. You have to do this every day, and it takes about 45 to 60 minutes each time.

While colostomy irrigation gives you more control over getting rid of poop without wearing a bag all day, it might not be the best choice if you can’t do it at the same time every day.

Keep in mind that colostomy irrigation might not work for everyone, especially if you have conditions like colon cancer, Crohn’s disease, or diverticulitis. If that’s the case, you might need to explore other ways to manage your health needs. Always talk to your healthcare professionals to figure out the best approach for your specific medical situation.

Colonic Stent:

If you’re dealing with issues in your colon, specifically intestinal obstruction, then a colonic stent or bowel could be beneficial. Instead of diverting the colon to the abdominal wall to redirect stool, colonic stenting is a different method that involves the use of an implanted device to help open up your colon.

In this procedure, a colonic stent is inserted into the narrowed or blocked part of the colon. This stent acts like a scaffold, keeping the narrowed area open and allowing the passage of stool through the colon. The insertion of a colonic stent can offer relief from symptoms associated with intestinal obstruction, such as abdominal pain and bloating.

FINAL WORDS:

In summary, while colostomy bags have definitely made life easier for people with ostomies, some are looking for ways to avoid using them all the time. Whether or not to have colostomy surgery depends on different things, like your health condition. There are times when surgery might not be needed.

To avoid using colostomy bags, some people might consider other options. One is colectomy, a surgery where part or all of the colon is removed. Another choice is colostomy irrigation, which gives people more control over bowel movements without using a bag all the time. For those with a blocked or narrowed colon, a colonic stent is another option. The best choice among these options depends on your health and what you prefer. Talking to healthcare professionals is really important to figure out the best way to take care of your colorectal health. Always get advice from medical experts to make smart choices based on your specific situation.