Understanding Stomas: Types, Causes, and Management

Stoma, an external abdominal opening of a surgically created passage either from an internal tubular structure (e.g. trachea, colon) or from a hollow organ (e.g. the stomach), serving as a substitute for a natural body orifice. Types include:

* Colostomy: created from the colon to divert stool. Most commonly used for blockages in the rectum or colon, such as colon cancer.

* Urostomy: created from the ureters to divert urine. Mostly used for blockages in the bladder or urethra, such as bladder cancer or prostate cancer.

* Ileostomy: created from the ileum (small intestine) to divert stool. Usually done for Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or a blockage in the large intestine.

* Esophagostomy: created from the esophagus to drain fluid or to provide nutritional access. Sometimes done for cancer or a condition called achalasia (difficulty swallowing).

* Tracheostomy: created in the trachea to help breathing. Sometimes necessary after a throat injury or surgery, or for conditions such as sleep apnea.

* Gastrostomy: created in the stomach to provide nutrition when a person can’t eat normally. Often done for people with conditions that affect swallowing or digestion.

* Jejunostomy: created in the jejunum (part of the small intestine) for long-term feeding after surgery or due to a medical condition.