What are a colostomy and an ileostomy?
A *colostomy* is an opening in which a section of the large intestine is brought out onto the surface of the abdomen.
An *ileostomy* is an opening in which the end part of the small intestine (the ileum) is brought out.
In most cases, a stoma is created temporarily to protect an intestinal anastomosis after complex operations. Once the bowel has fully healed, it can be closed during a separate planned procedure.
In some situations, when restoring the natural passage of the bowel is impossible or unsafe, a permanent stoma is created.
Our approach
At MSI, the decision to create a stoma is made only when there are clear medical indications. Our goal is always safe treatment with the greatest possible preservation of natural bowel function.
If a stoma is necessary, we carefully plan its position before surgery, taking into account the patient's build, lifestyle, and daily activities. Whenever possible, we create *temporary protective stomas*, which can be closed once treatment is complete.
After surgery, patients receive detailed recommendations on stoma care and, if necessary, are trained by a stoma care specialist.
When is a stoma needed?
A stoma may be necessary for:
- rectal cancer
- colon cancer
- anastomotic leak
- bowel obstruction
- bowel perforation
- severe diverticulitis
- Crohn's disease
- ulcerative colitis
- injuries of the large or small intestine
- other conditions requiring temporary or permanent diversion of intestinal contents
Indications for surgery
Creation of a stoma is recommended for:
- a high risk of anastomotic leak
- cases where bowel continuity cannot be restored safely
- severe inflammation
- advanced tumor spread
- emergencies requiring rapid diversion of intestinal contents
How is the operation performed?
The operation is performed as a stand-alone procedure or as a stage of a larger operation.
The surgeon brings the prepared section of bowel out through a small opening in the front abdominal wall and forms the stoma. The position of the stoma is chosen to provide maximum comfort in everyday life and to make care easier.
Advantages of a properly formed stoma
- Reliable protection of the intestinal anastomosis
- Lower risk of serious postoperative complications
- Safe treatment of complex diseases
- High quality of life with proper care
- The possibility of closing a temporary stoma after treatment is complete
Recovery after surgery
After a stoma is created, the patient gradually returns to normal physical activity and diet. In most cases, modern stoma care products make it possible to lead an active life, work, travel, and play sports.
If the stoma is temporary, an operation to close it is planned once treatment is complete and it has been confirmed that bowel continuity can be safely restored.
Our advantages
- Individual planning of every procedure
- A stoma is created only when there are well-founded indications
- The greatest possible preservation of natural bowel passage
- Preferential use of temporary protective stomas
- Training patients in stoma care
- Support for the patient at every stage of treatment and recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
No. For many patients, the stoma is temporary and is closed once the bowel has fully healed.
Yes. Modern stoma bags and care products make it possible to work, travel, be physically active, and keep your usual lifestyle.
The timing depends on the underlying disease, healing of the anastomosis, and completion of any additional treatment. The decision is made individually after follow-up examinations.
In the first weeks after surgery, the diet is gradually expanded. Later, most patients can eat practically without restrictions, following their doctor's individual recommendations.
Yes. The patient receives detailed recommendations on care, changing the stoma bag, diet, and lifestyle to adapt as quickly as possible after surgery.