Forsyth Medical Center 
Colorectal
Ostomy
| An ostomy is a surgically created opening connecting an internal organ to the surface of the body. An ostomy may be temporary or permanent. |
Temporary Ostomy
- required if the intestinal tract cannot be prepared for surgery due to blockage by disease or scar tissue
- created to allow a disease process or operative site to heal without irritation by the passage of stool
- typically are reversed with little or no loss of intestinal function
Permanent Ostomy
- required when disease or treatment of the disease impairs normal intestinal function
- required when muscles that control the rectum do not properly function or require removal
- low rectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease commonly require permanent ostomy
If a situation occurs when the need for an ostomy is required, it is likely that you will return to a complete, active lifestyle. With the skill and support of the specialized surgeons and therapists, coping with either a temporary or permanent ostomy can be made easier allowing you to return to a normal lifestyle.
