Basic remarks: The main indication for an colostomy is a carcinoma low down in the rectum. Apart from this, tumors in any part of the bowel or neighboring organs, and complications of inflammatory disease may make a diversion of feces necessary.
Points discussed: A stoma should be sited at a distance from skin folds, and bony protuberance, and should be readily visible for self-care. Temporary "continence" can be achieved with special stool regulatory measures (in particular irrigation), while the patient can make to with a stoma cap or a mini-bag. Many complications of stoma, in particular necrosis, parastomal hernias, prolapse, too large a stoma, stenosis and stomal recurrent tumor can usually be eliminated by surgery.
Conclusions: Today excellent possibilities of stomal care are available for a wide range of problems, which can be determined and applied in cooperation with the various specialists.