Which specialist performs stoma surgery?

The surgeon creates an opening, called a stoma, so stool or urine can leave the body through the abdominal wall when the usual route needs to be diverted. The exact operation depends on the bowel or urinary problem and whether the stoma is intended to be temporary or long term. A stoma care nurse helps choose a suitable position before surgery, teaches pouch changes and checks the skin. An oncologist, gastroenterologist, urologist or dietitian may also be involved depending on the reason for surgery.

Ask the surgical team what type of stoma is planned, where it will sit and how it may affect washing, clothing, work and activity. Share your medicines, allergies, abdominal operations and skin concerns. Arrange teaching with a stoma care nurse and learn how to empty the pouch, protect the surrounding skin and obtain supplies. Ask who will review the stoma after discharge and what changes should be reported.

Contact the surgical or stoma team for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, bleeding, leakage that repeatedly irritates the skin, worsening pain, vomiting or inability to keep fluids down. Seek urgent help if the stoma becomes very dark, stops producing output with cramping and swelling, or you feel faint or severely unwell. Follow the discharge plan because early assessment can help prevent dehydration, blockage or wound problems.

Is a general or colorectal surgeon performing my operation? Is the stoma expected to be temporary or long term? Who will mark its position and teach me pouch care? What output, skin changes or pain require an urgent call? When is my first postoperative review?