There are a number of different operations that can be done for bowel cancer. The type of operation depends on the size of the cancer and where in the bowel it is. Sometimes it is necessary to make a colostomy as part of the operation but many people having surgery for a bowel cancer will not need a colostomy.
A colostomy is an opening of the bowel onto the front of the abdomen (tummy). The opening is called a stoma, so basically colostomy means 'an opening of the colon'. A bag is worn over the stoma to collect the stools.
Very often the colostomy is only necessary for a few months. A second operation can then be done to rejoin the bowel and close the colostomy. Only a few people with cancer of the colon and rectum will have a permanent colostomy.
Before the operation the doctor or nurse will carefully plan the position of the stoma. This is done to make sure the bag stays in place whether you are sitting, standing or moving about.
Many people are frightened or upset at the idea of a colostomy. Although it seems a strange thing to have done, it is something that people do get used to remarkably well and usually it is possible to lead a virtually normal life with a colostomy.
Learning to cope with a new colostomy takes time and patience. Most hospitals have specially trained nurses called stoma care nurses who will show you how to look after your colostomy and help you to cope with any problems. Following the surgery the nurses will care for your stoma and make sure the bag is emptied and changed as often as necessary. When you are feeling well enough, the nurse will show you how to clean your stoma and change the bag. There are several different types of bag or appliance that can be used and the nurse will help you to choose a suitable one.
With time, some people learn to avoid having to wear a bag by flushing out their colostomy about once a day. Although this method does not suit everybody you could talk to your stoma nurse about it and see what you think.
When you go home you will be able to get supplies of colostomy bags from your chemist, but you will need a prescription from your GP. Needing colostomy bags entitles you to free prescriptions if you have a permanent colostomy, so do make sure that your GP signs the exemption forms for you to get these (if you are aged between 16 and 65). However unfortunately having a temporary stoma does not entitle you to free prescriptions. In this case it may be more cost-effective to obtain a pre-payment certificate. Seek advice about how to obtain this from your surgeon, clinical nurse specialist or GP.
Once you are home you can always phone your colostomy nurse if you have any problems. Also it is quite likely that your GP will arrange for a District Nurse to call in to check you are coping all right.