Also known as: Colostomy, Colostomy closure

A colostomy is a surgical procedure that is done when part of the bowel (colon or rectum) has been removed and the remaining bowel cannot function normally. The colostomy may be temporary, until the colon or rectum heals, or it may be permanent if the entire lower colon or rectum was removed.

In colostomy surgery, the surgeon makes a cut through the skin on the person's abdomen and sews the end of the upper part of the intestine (where the stool continues to be made) to the opening in the skin. This opening is called a colostomy. The diseased part of the intestine is usually removed during the surgery. (Occasionally, it may be left in place and allowed to heal, depending on the type of disease or injury the person has.)
