Navigating life with an ostomy can be an empowering yet challenging experience. To support ostomates on this journey, we’ve compiled a comprehensive glossary of key terms related to ostomy care. Understanding the language surrounding ostomy procedures, products, and care can significantly enhance your confidence and enable you to communicate effectively with healthcare providers and support networks. Here, we outline essential terms that will assist you in making informed decisions, connecting with others, and embracing your new lifestyle. Let’s dive into these important definitions, which serve as a valuable resource for anyone managing an ostomy.
Ostomy: A surgical procedure that creates an opening (stoma) in the body for the elimination of waste.
Stoma: The end of the intestine or urinary tract that is brought to the surface of the abdomen, allowing waste to exit the body.
Ileostomy: A type of ostomy that involves diverting the small intestine (ileum) through the abdominal wall to create a stoma, usually performed for conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Colostomy: A surgical procedure that brings a portion of the colon (large intestine) through the abdominal wall to form a stoma, often due to colorectal cancer or diverticulitis.
Urostomy: A type of ostomy that diverts urine away from the bladder through a stoma, typically created when the bladder is removed or needs to be bypassed.
Pouching System: The collection system used to cover the stoma and collect waste. It typically consists of a skin barrier and a pouch.
Skin Barrier (Wafer): A protective layer that adheres to the skin around the stoma and helps prevent irritation from waste output.
Output: The waste expelled from the stoma, which can be liquid, semi-formed, or formed, depending on the type of ostomy.
Flange: The part of the pouching system that attaches to the skin barrier, securing the pouch in place.
Ostomy Nurse/Enterostomal Therapist (ET Nurse): A specialized healthcare professional who provides education and support to individuals with ostomies.
Irrigation: A process used by some colostomy patients to control their output and create a regular schedule for bowel movements.
Stenosis:The narrowing of the stoma, which can make output difficult and may require medical attention.
Herniation: A condition where tissue protrudes through the abdominal wall near the stoma, potentially requiring surgical intervention.
14. Leakage: When the pouching system does not adequately seal around the stoma, resulting in waste escaping and potentially irritating the skin.
Ostomy Support Group: A gathering of individuals with ostomies who meet to share experiences, provide emotional support, and exchange information.
Antireflux Valve: A feature in some pouching systems that helps prevent the backflow of output into the stoma.
Filtering: A mechanism in some pouches that allows gas to escape while keeping liquid waste contained, reducing ballooning of the pouch.
Bulging Stoma: A protruding stoma that may require different types of pouches to ensure a secure fit.
Adhesive Remover: A product used to safely remove the pouching system from the skin without causing irritation.
Stoma Measurement Guide: A tool or chart used to accurately measure the size of the stoma for selecting the appropriate pouching system.
Understanding these terms can empower you and help facilitate discussions with healthcare providers and the ostomy community. Remember, every journey is unique, and knowledge is a powerful ally!