Colostomy vs Ileostomy

[chivalryx]

Hi all,

I'm new to the forums, but have been a lurker for many years. The information and support here is amazing!

I'm curious to know if anyone has had a Colostomy then had to have an Ileostomy. And what are the major differences (other than the technicality of small intestine vs large)?

I'm faced with this decision in the new year. From what I read, an Ileostomy has a slightly better rate of success in reducing the need for another surgery in the future, but my surgeon says the percentage is very small. He's recommending a Colostomy if there's enough healthy colon remaining.

Has anyone had to go through both? Or have any Colostomy patients had long term success?

Thanks!

Chiv.

 

[Terriernut]

I could see why I for one would need an ileo in future. I have a colostomy now, only my sigmoid was removed. However, I have crohn's colitis and there's always the possibility that in future the whole thing will have to come out. Bang, ileostomy.

 

[chivalryx]

Yes, unfortunately I'm in the same situation. My surgeon believes that since the Crohn's has stayed put in specific locations, that it's better to give me a colostomy if possible. He mentioned it's much easier to take care of than an ileostomy (but I didn't get a chance to ask why!)

 

[KazT17]

Hi, I have wondered about this too. I have heard that, with a colostomy, stools are formed when passed into the bag. Does this make it harder to conceal? Usually a closed bag is used rather than a drainable one. I have an ileostomy which passes small amounts regularly so the contents of the bag can be drained before it becomes noticeable. However, the contents are very acidic and can burn the surrounding skin if it comes into contact with it. I don't think this is the case with a colostomy.
I would imagine having the colon removed completely is a bigger op than just forming a colostomy and leaving the majority of it in? Mine was really painful!
Also, I suppose it's obvious, but an ileostomy stoma is smaller in size than a colostomy stoma.

Good luck whatever you decide Chiv xxx

 

[Terriernut]

I dont think one is easier to take care of than another from the interactions I've had with fellow ostomates here. Stan doesn't have formed stools that is a fact. Porridge like at the very best of times. Nyx has formed stools from her colostomy. (lucky girl)

As far as easier to conceal the bag...dont know.

 

[KazT17]

Hi Misty, I suppose we just learn to live with what we are left with! I wouldn't go back though. I love being symptom free x

 

[Nyx]

I have a colostomy and from what I read on here from those with ileostomies, mine is much easier to take care of. My stools are very formed, I rarely have the Big D, and the loosest my stools have ever been have been the consistency of pudding. I use a small closed end bag and a liner inside of that, so when I feel a stool in there, I just whip my bag off, whip the liner out and flush it. My stoma is much bigger than people with an ileo...I think the average ileostomy is around 20 - 25mm and mine is 45mm and sticks out about that far too. If I wear loose clothes and don't squish it down you can see the bump where he is. I don't find that it's noticeable when the bag's full though (mind you, I don't often let it get full anyway). If I wear jeans, or my spanks underwear under looser clothing, you can't see the bump at all. I don't have to use any pastes or rings with my appliance as I don't get leaks at all (I've only had 1 in the 3 years I've had Oscar and that was when I had the flu and had the Big D). I guess the only thing I ever complain about is how loud my farts are...lol Oscar's got a big mouth...lol

Hope this gave you some good info

 

[chivalryx]

Great info! I guess it would make sense that in most cases a Colostomy output is less problematic than Ileostomy. I guess I'll go with what the surgeon decides in the end. (pun intended)

Thanks everyone!

Chiv.