# Ostomy --- An **ostomy** is a surgical procedure that connects some part of the the [[large intestine|large]] or [[small intestine]] to the outside of the body via something called a **stoma**, where feces is collected in a special removable pouch. It is a surprisingly common procedure, nearly 100,000 ostomys are placed in the US annually. The most common reasons someone might get an ostomy are [[inflammatory bowel disease|IBD]], [[diverticulosis|diverticulitis]] and [[colorectal cancer]]. Some ostomys are temporary in order to allow the instestines to rest a little bit, but others are permanant. Patients with an ostomy have to be on a special diet, usually a "low residual" diet that has very little fiber, or gas-producing substances. An ostomy is referred to by where in the intestine it is placed. This also changes the characteristics of the fecal matter that fills the ostomy pouch. The [[large intestine|large intestine's]] main job is to reclaim water from what is left after the small intestine has absorbed all the nutrients. So as a general rule, the closer to the beginning of the large intestine the ostomy is placed, the liquidier the secretions. The placement of the ostomy is decided on depending on where the damage to the colon is. An **ileostomy** is an ostomy placed in the ileum. A **colostomy** is made into the colon or large intestine. ## Nursing Considerations The ostomy appliance should be changed **every 5-10 days or if there is every any leakage**. The stoma should be bright red with scant mucous. Some blood is normal, especially if it has been recently placed. Great care should be paid to the skin around the stoma as it is prone to breakdown between the acidic contents of the intestines that leak out and the constantly changing adhesive of the appliance. ___