Medipharm.ie is proud to announce the launch of an Ostomy Care Range to the site, initially the Comfizz range of underwear.
The full range can be found here www.medipharm.ie/health-and-pharmacy/ostomy-care.html
In accordance with this launch, have a read of the following blog explaining more about ostomy surgery, myths and facts and much more.
What is an Ostomy?
An ostomy is a surgically created opening connecting an organ which is internal to the surface of the body. Different kinds of ostomies are named based on the specific organ they involve. Examples of these include “ileostomy” (connecting the ileal part of the small intestine to the abdominal wall) and a “colostomy” (which connects the large intestine, or colon, to the abdominal wall). These are the most common procedures in intestinal surgery.
Is the procedure permanent?
Well, yes and no. An ostomy can be either permanent or temporary.A temporary ostomy may be created to allow inflammation or an area healing from operation time to fully repair without being contaminated. Temporary procedures such as this can usually be reversed with little or no deteriation to intestinal function. Permanent procedures may be required when a disease, or in addition the treatment of a disease, impair the normal function of the intestines. In addition, when the muscles that control these functions fail or need to be removed, a permanent ostomy is required. The most common causes for these are low rectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.
How are bowel movements controlled post-op?
Once the procedure has been carried out, your surgeon or nurse will teach you how to attach and care for a pouch called an ostomy appliance, which will collect the eliminated waste. These pouches are disposable and are emptied or changed as needed. The system is quite secure, accidents are very rare, and the pouches are odour-free. Bowel movements will naturally empty into the pouch. The frequency and quantity of these movements will vary dependant on the nature of the ostomy carried out, along with other factors such as diet and general health.
Will other people know I have had the surgery?
An ostomy is very easily hidden, by means of normal clothing and dressing aids such as the Comfizz range of underwear, as available from our site. Really the only way for people to know, is if you tell them!
Where on the body will the ostomy be?
A flat portion of the abdominal wall is the best site for placing an ostomy. Your surgeon will select this area keeping in mind your natural waist/belt line, as to minimise constriction after the operation in your day to day dressing and activity.
What implications will surgery have on physical activity?To be honest, little to none. All normal activities, including active sports, can be resumed once healing from surgery is complete.
What are the possible complications of an ostomy?
While the procedure is very common and straightforward most of the time, there are still possibilities for complications. Most of these complications however are minor, such as local skin irritation from the surgery. Some problems, such as a hernia associated with an ostomy, may require further surgery. While life after an ostomy does require some adjustments, it should not stop you leading a normal and healthy life after your operation.
Keep an eye out for our next ostomy blog, which will discuss the benefits of the Comfizz range of products, which are proving very popular with stoma patients.
