How effective is stoma surgery for bowel cancer?

A surgeon brings part of the bowel through an opening in the abdominal wall, called a stoma. Stool then passes into a pouch. A colostomy uses the colon; an ileostomy uses the small intestine. The stoma may be temporary while a bowel join heals, or it may be intended to remain when reconnecting the bowel is not suitable.

The operation can relieve or prevent blockage and can divert stool away from a healing area. Cancer treatment may still include removal of the tumour, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or other care, based on the tumour and the wider treatment plan.

A stoma nurse can show you how to empty and change the pouch, protect the surrounding skin, and recognise a good fit. Ask when you can shower, return to work, exercise, and resume usual foods. Bring questions about fluid intake, output changes and supplies to the preoperative visit.

After surgery, inspect the skin around the stoma and follow the care plan. A change in output, leakage or soreness is useful information for the stoma team, which can adjust the pouching system or provide treatment.

Contact your surgical or stoma team urgently if the stoma becomes very dark, stops passing stool or gas, or produces a sudden large change in output. Seek prompt advice for repeated vomiting, severe abdominal pain, fever, heavy bleeding, or skin damage that is spreading.

Is the stoma expected to be temporary or long term? Which bowel segment will be used? How will it affect other cancer treatments? Who do I contact about leakage, skin soreness or a change in output? When is reversal considered, if it is appropriate?