What is a colostomy?
A colostomy is usually the result of an operation to remove disease such as cancer, Crohn's disease or diverticulitis. It can also result from a bowel obstruction or injury to the digestive or urinary system. In a colostomy operation, part of your colon is brought to the surface of your abdomen to form the stoma. A colostomy is usually created on the left-hand side of your abdomen. Stools in this part of the intestine are solid and, because a stoma has no muscle to control defecation, will need to be collected using a stoma pouch.
Find out more about colostomy surgery and how it can affect your daily life.