Description
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
What it is:
A colostomy bag is a waterproof pouch, usually made of plastic, that attaches to the stoma (opening) created during surgery.
Why it’s needed:
After a colostomy, the normal passage of stool through the anus is disrupted. The colostomy bag collects the stool that exits through the stoma.
Reasons for colostomy:
A colostomy may be necessary if a portion of the colon needs to be removed or bypassed due to conditions like:
Colorectal cancer: Removal of cancerous tissue may require a colostomy.
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis): These conditions can damage the colon, making a colostomy necessary.
Injury or trauma: Injuries to the colon can disrupt its normal function, requiring a colostomy to allow the bowel to heal.
Bowel obstruction: A blockage in the colon can prevent waste from passing, requiring a colostomy to bypass the blockage.