Colostomy: Surgical Opening for Fecal Diversion

A colostomy is a surgically created opening in the large intestine allowing fecal matter to exit into an external collection bag. It's performed when part of the colon is removed or bypassed (e.g., colon cancer, diverticulitis).

The external bag requires regular emptying. Colostomies may be temporary or permanent depending on the underlying condition and surgical plan.