🩺 Ostomies 🔍 What is an Ostomy? An ostomy is a surgically created opening in the body that allows for the discharge of body wastes when natural routes are not possible due to disease, injury, or surgery. This opening, called a stoma, may connect to the digestive or urinary system depending on the medical condition. --- 🔄 Types of Ostomies 🔹 Colostomy – Colon (Large Intestine) A section of the colon is brought through the abdominal wall to create a stoma, allowing feces to exit the body. Output is typically more formed. 🔹 Ileostomy – Ileum (Small Intestine) The ileum is diverted through the abdominal wall to form a stoma. ⚠️ Note: Output is usually liquid to semi-liquid and can be irritating to the skin—careful skin protection is vital. 🔹 Urostomy – Urinary System Urine is rerouted from the bladder, often using the ureters and a segment of intestine, to exit through a stoma on the abdomen.