Colostomy for Colorectal Cancer: Who Needs One & What to Expect

Not everyone with colorectal cancer needs a colostomy. Only about 15-20% of people with colorectal cancer will need a colostomy. A colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening (stoma) in the abdomen through which stool can pass. This is necessary when part of the colon or rectum has been removed due to cancer. In some cases, a temporary colostomy may be done to allow the colon or rectum to heal after surgery. This type of colostomy is usually reversed after a few months. In other cases, a permanent colostomy may be necessary, which means that the person will have to wear a colostomy bag to collect stool.