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The term for an artificial connection between parts of the intestine and the abdominal wall is ‘stoma’.  A stoma originating from the large intestine (colon) is called ‘colostomy’, one from the small intestine (ileum) is called ‘ileostoma’. Through the opening in the abdominal wall  stool is discharged. Because such a bowel motion can not be controlled by the patient, the faeces is collected in special plastic bags which are glued to the skin around the stoma. These bags are  odour tight and leak-proof and are changed when required.

Alternatively, if a colostomy is present, the large intestine can also be emptied completely and in a controlled fashion. In this case, the stoma can be closed with a cap between irrigations because usually, no additional bowel motion occurs within 24 hours. Irrigation circumvents the need of wearing a stoma bag.   

A stoma can be surgically fashioned either permanently or temporarily (most common).  A temporary stoma protects the part of the lower intestine weakened by the operation, thus a complicated suture can heal until the tissue is strong and resilient again. The healing process usually takes 3 months after stoma surgery or after the completion of possible adjuvant therapies. In cases where the anal sphincter is already affected by the tumour, or satisfactory continence post-operatively is not achieved,  a permanent artificial anus may be indicated.

The majority of patients with intestinal cancer, however, do not require an artificial anus or stoma.

Once patients have learnt  to manage their stoma, they can live a normal and active life. Family life, clothing, travel, work, hobbies, sport, swimming, eating and drinking – none of this should be a problem for someone with a stoma.  There is one proviso:  the individual stoma is to be maintained with the most suitable and relevant care products available.  A stoma is also no  barrier to having sexual intercourse.

There are specially trained allied health workers, so called ‘stoma therapists’ who can train patients already in the hospital on all aspects of stoma management and care.

In addition, similarly affected people in self-help groups can provide many tips and useful advice for daily routines, drawn from their own experience.

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