An ostomy alters the body’s natural process of waste elimination, leading to the need for specialized bags affixed to the skin. It’s a surreal notion—picture individuals navigating their daily lives with pouches brimming with urine or faeces.
While for some, this concept is beyond belief, for many, it’s an unavoidable truth. Despite its strangeness, it is the only solution for those facing this challenging reality. This highlights the remarkable resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Many only become acquainted with the concept of ostomies when they or a loved one are directly impacted. It’s a revelation that often arrives suddenly, shattering preconceptions. It prompts a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those navigating life with a stoma. What was once unimaginable becomes a stark reality, highlighting the importance of empathy and awareness in supporting individuals on their journey toward acceptance and adaptation
At Swiftly Found, we desire to provide content that is not only impactful but also rooted in truth. We believe in the importance of delivering insightful, well-researched blogs sourced from reputable channels.
When it comes to unravelling the intricacies of life-changing treatments like ostomy, we recognize the necessity of expertise in guiding our understanding.
An interview with Dr. Gideon Kurigamba Kwikiriza.
Dr. Gideon Kurigamba Kwikiriza is a Consultant Gastrointestinal and Laparoscopic Surgeon. It is his expert knowledge that we need to shed more light on the intricate realities of ostomy and the profound impact it has on individuals’ lives
In this interview with Dr. Gideon, we delve into ostomy, exploring the diverse types, various classifications, and his wealth of experience in working with ostomy patients. His invaluable insights and expert advice will enlighten and empower.
Understanding Ostomy: A Comprehensive Explanation.
Sarah: Dr. Gideon, what exactly is an ostomy?
Dr. Gideon: An ostomy is a surgery, to create an opening called a stoma to connect an inside hollow organ to the skin. Any hollow organ can be connected to the skin, and the kind of organ will determine the type of ostomy.
Exploring the varieties of ostomies.
Sarah: What are those types of ostomies?
Dr. Gideon: Well, there is;
- Gastrostomy: where we create an opening from the stomach connecting to the skin.
- Ileostomy: the opening is from the small intestines connecting to the skin.
- Colostomy is a surgery to create an opening from the Large intestines connecting to the skin. And,
- Ureterostomy: to create an opening from the ureters (kidneys) connecting to the skin.
Gastrointestinal Ostomy Expertise
Sarah: Doctor, what has been your experience with ostomy?
Dr. Gideon: My expertise is in gastrointestinal ostomy, to be exact, this includes; ileostomy, colostomy, and gastrostomy. I have fashioned over 260 stomas throughout my career, successfully reversing over 90% of those.
Understanding Stoma Classifications: Temporary vs. Permanent Options.
Sarah: That means that, in some cases, the stoma is temporary. That revelation brings a sense of relief. Could you elaborate on the classifications of stomas?
Dr. Gideon: Absolutely, Sarah. Firstly, it is important to understand that having a stoma is not a death sentence; it is a treatment option. We may opt, therefore, for a patient to get;
- Temporary stoma; created to allow a distal portion to heal and thereafter reversed. Common indications addressed include; injury or trauma to the rectum, after surgery to the rectum, when a portion of the colon is “dead” (gangrenous), large intestinal obstruction, and genetic abnormalities (children and infants).
- Permanent stoma; is irreversible and opted for when the distal portion is severely diseased and cannot be salvaged. Common indications addressed include; the removal of the rectum and anus after surgery.
Probability of Stoma Occurrence.
Sarah: Thank you, Dr. Gideon. It is fascinating to see the distinctions between temporary and permanent options and the varied medical conditions they address. In your experience, how likely is it that one will end up with either class of stoma?
Dr. Gideon: Indeed, Sarah. Ostomies often serve as a secondary solution, typically considered promptly if other treatments prove ineffective. Interestingly, in my experience, they represent approximately 5% of gastrointestinal surgeries on average.
Temporary stomas are more likely to be used than permanent ones. The level of severity of the condition will dictate the kind to use. Permanent stomas are mostly used in advanced cases of rectum and anal canal cancer.
Navigating the Stoma Decision.
Sarah: Even as a last resort, I imagine it’s a difficult decision for patients to come to terms with. What has been your experience with patients for whom you have considered a stoma as a treatment option?
Dr. Gideon: Indeed, it’s a challenging journey, as one would anticipate. The comfort, though, comes from knowing that a stoma is the best option, in their interest. Even in light of that, my observation has been that patients are naturally scared about the likelihood of getting a stoma.
Counseling is available before each bowel surgery, highlighting the possibility of a stoma in case this is not part of the treatment plan. The decision to fashion a stoma is usually made while the patient is in surgery, especially for temporary stomas.
Every patient’s response to the stoma post-surgery is unique. Through observation, I have noticed that acceptance tends to occur more swiftly when accompanied by;
- Comprehensive pre-surgery counselling.
- A clear estimate of time to the stoma reversal in the case of a temporary one and benefits of the stoma.
Challenges in Stoma Care.
Sarah: Undoubtedly, your insights are invaluable for those facing the prospect of a stoma and for their families. I can only imagine the complexities of your role both before and after the operation. What are the main challenges you encounter as a doctor in this process?
Dr. Gideon: Every role presents its own challenges. Through my work with numerous patients, I’ve come to understand that:
- Fashioning a stoma marks the beginning of a journey that demands careful monitoring, especially for temporary stomas awaiting reversal. For permanent stomas, this journey becomes lifelong. This necessitates ongoing support and care.
- Complications associated with stomas are often attributed to the quality of the post-surgery care administered.
- Varied levels of understanding among patients can significantly impact the outcomes of stoma placement and post-surgery care.
Addressing Patient Concerns: Managing Challenges in Stoma Care.
Sarah: That certainly highlights areas where there’s room for improvement. On the flip side, what are the most common complaints patients express?
Dr. Gideon: Many patients understandably face challenges in adjusting to life post-surgery, as it often brings with it various challenges.
Those include; stoma-related diarrhea, skin itching, excoriation (wounds around the stoma), bleeding around the stoma, leakage of stoma bags, stoma prolapse, and retraction. However, these challenges can be effectively managed with medication, proper stoma care kits, and regular medical check-ups.
Parting Words of Wisdom: Navigating Life with a Stoma.
Sarah: Doctor, I can’t thank you enough for the wealth of knowledge you have shared today. Your expertise has been invaluable.
Before we conclude, do you have any final words of advice for those currently navigating life with a stoma or preparing to undergo the procedure, as well as for their loved ones?
Dr. Gideon: It’s truly an honor to be here. When faced with the possibility of a stoma or when your doctor recommends one, it’s crucial to approach it with a positive mindset. The primary goal of your doctor is to improve your quality of life and ultimately save it.
It is important to remember that stomas are not life-threatening; rather, they often enhance the overall quality of life for many individuals.
This is an excellent read. Very much desired information for patients walking the journey of an ostomy
Thank you, Doctor. It is truly heartening to hear that the information resonates with those it’s intended to help.
[…] up in a hospital with a stoma can evoke a range of emotions, often intense and overwhelming. There might be a sense of […]