Colostomy

Description:
The procedure is done while the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia). An incision is made in the abdomen and the bowel surgery is done. Healthy bowel tissue is stitched to the abdomen (colostomy). An adhesive drainage bag (stoma appliance) is placed around the opening. The abdominal incision is closed.

Indications:
A colostomy is done when the lower large intestine, rectum, or anus is unable to function normally or needs rest from normal functions.

What to Expect After:
The colostomy functions well to drain stool (feces). Most colostomy stool is softer and more liquid that normally passed stool, and depends on the location of the intestinal segment used.

Convalescence:
Hospital stay is estimated to be 7 to 10 days. After 2 to 3 days, the patient will be able to resume eating. Healing may take 1 to 2 months. Learning to clean the abdomen and change the colostomy bag will be necessary. Most people can eventually change the bag at regular and convenient times. Physical activities are encouraged to strengthen the abdominal wall muscles.

Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are:

Risks for any surgery are:

Additional risks are:

  • narrowing or obstruction of the colostomy opening (stoma)
  • developing a hernia at the incision site



Cost:
The costs of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are younger, sicker, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.

Surgery charges can be separated into five parts: 1) the surgeon's fee, 2) the anesthesiologist's fee, 3) the hospital charges, which includes nursing care and the operating room, 4) the medications, and 5) additional charges.

1. Surgeon's fee: variable
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day (more for the intensive care unit (ICU) or private rooms)
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: assisting surgeon, treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood or Xray exams), medical supplies, equipment use, etc.

Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.


After the surgical removal of part or all of the colon, the intestine is connected to the surface of the abdomen to allow digested food to exit the body. A loop of bowel has been brought out through the abdominal wall in this photograph. After it has healed, the opening (stoma) may be surgically altered to improve its function and appearance.