Waking up after surgery with a stoma can be an unexpected experience. It is common to have questions about why it was needed and what life will be like afterwards. In many cases, a stoma is created to give the bowel or bladder time to heal or to safely carry out its normal function. Some people need it only for a few months, while others may have it for life. Learning how your stoma works and what to expect during recovery can help you feel more prepared for the changes ahead.
What is a stoma actually?
A stoma is a surgical opening created in your abdomen, which allows waste to leave your body when normal pathways are blocked. While performing certain surgeries, a part of the urinary or bowel system is brought to your skin, where the waste gets collected in a pouch. The surgery you went through will determine whether the stoma is temporary or permanent.
Why do some cancer patients need a stoma?
Doctors may go for a stoma when cancer or its treatment affects the way your bowel or bladder functions. In some cases, it can also help your body to recover while your treatment continues. It can commonly take place due to:
To remove the cancerous part from your bowel or bladder
Allowing the bowel to heal after surgery
To treat a blockage in your intestine
To support cancer patients during recovery after surgery
Which cancers require a stoma?
Not every type of cancer needs a stoma. Doctors may usually recommend a stoma where there are high chances that your surgery can affect your bladder and bowel movements. It may be needed for cancers like the following:
Bladder cancers
Anal cancer
Gynecological cancer
Is a stoma temporary or permanent?
A stoma can either be temporary or permanent, depending on the type of cancer and the surgery. Doctors may go for a temporary stoma to give your bowel enough time to recover after surgery. Once your bowel is healed, they might perform another surgery to restore your normal waste pathways. But a permanent stoma is done when a rectum or bladder is removed to treat your cancer.
Living with a stoma?
Adjusting to a stoma can feel a little difficult in the beginning. But with time, it can gradually become a part of your routine. Stoma nurses can help you manage your waste pouch and protect your skin from infection during your difficult times. By doing this, you can gain the confidence to resume all your routine activities. Doctors may also suggest some diet and hydration changes according to your type of stoma. By following your doctor’s advice, you will find it easy to adapt to life with a stoma.