What kinds of ostomies are there?

There are several types of ostomies, each named according to the location and type of stoma created:

1. Colostomy: A colostomy involves the creation of an opening (stoma) in the colon, usually the ascending or descending colon. The stoma allows stool (solid waste) to pass through and collect in an ostomy bag attached to the abdomen. A colostomy is typically performed when there is a blockage, injury, or disease affecting the colon.

2. Ileostomy: This type of ostomy involves creating a stoma in the ileum, which is the last part of the small intestine. It is performed when the small intestine is affected by disease or injury, such as Crohn's disease or cancer. With an ileostomy, liquid stool or waste material exits the body through the stoma into an ostomy bag worn on the abdomen.

3. Urostomy: A urostomy is a type of urinary diversion that involves creating a stoma to redirect urine from the body. It can be performed in cases of bladder cancer, birth defects, or other conditions affecting the urinary tract. There are two main types of urostomies: ileal conduit urostomy and continent urostomy.

4. Jejunostomy: A jejunostomy is an ostomy that creates a stoma in the jejunum, which is part of the small intestine. It is often performed to provide access for feeding when someone is unable to eat normally.

5. Gastrostomy: This type of ostomy involves creating a stoma directly into the stomach. A feeding tube is inserted through the stoma to provide nutrition directly to the stomach, bypassing the mouth and esophagus.

It's important for people with ostomies to receive proper guidance, education, and support from healthcare professionals to ensure their physical and psychological well-being, as well as to learn how to manage and care for their stoma effectively.