How to Recover From Colostomy Surgery

A colostomy is a major surgical procedure generally performed due to infection, blockage or trauma of the colon. The most common reasons are diverticulitis or another inflammatory bowel condition, or cancer. Paraplegics with neurogenic bowel disorders frequently opt for this procedure to regain the ability to care for their own bowel needs. After surgery, there will be an opening in your lower abdomen (stoma) for waste to pass from the large intestine into an attached colostomy bag. The procedure typically takes between two and four hours, depending on the patient's specific needs.

Instructions

• 1

  Rest for the first few days after surgery. During this time, you will continue to be administered pain medications through your IV. You will not be permitted to eat until your doctor can hear bowel sounds in your abdomen that indicate your intestines are ready to work again. If you are ambulatory and well enough, the nurses will encourage you to stand and walk within a few days after surgery. Walking, while uncomfortable, is an important part of the recovery process.

• 2

  Begin with a clear liquid diet a few days after surgery. Once your doctor begins to hear bowel sounds and the stoma starts functioning, you will be allowed some clear liquids such as gelatin, juice and broth. If these are tolerated well, your doctor will authorize you to begin eating full liquids or solid food.

• 3

  Learn to care for your stoma. Your nurse will spend some time with you before leaving the hospital to help you learn how to care for your stoma, and how to change your ostomy bag. Find out where to obtain the necessary supplies and if there are any special instructions for your individual care.

• 4

  Limit activity once you are home so you do not strain yourself. Driving, lifting and housework are not recommended for at least the first six weeks. Follow your doctor's advice about resuming regular school, work and home activities.

• 5

  Continue a low-fiber diet when you first get home. As healing progresses, your doctor will advise you when you can add more fiber into your diet. Once fully healed, you will be advised to maintain a high-fiber diet to help your gastrointestinal tract function efficiently. Fiber will help food digest and process more easily. Stay away from foods that cause gas, diarrhea or constipation.