Switching from Colostomy to Ileostomy - Any Advice?

Hi, I just found out my colostomy isn't working so well and now I have to have it changed to an ileostomy. Just wondering on here if someone has had the same thing happen to them. I really need some info on having a colostomy changed to an ileostomy.

Hi Marlene, I went through the same thing. It became clear my colostomy wasn't working very well for me within two to three months, but it took several more months before I was finally able to get the ileostomy surgery. That was over two years ago now, and it was very successful. I'm happy to help with any info you might need. What would you like to know?

Terry

Hi Terry, thank you for replying to my message. I just really wanted to know the pros and cons of an ileostomy because I know about colostomy now. I had my new stoma done 7 months ago, but before that, I had a temporary one for 2 years. Then it had to be changed to permanent because it wasn't making any difference. I hope you don't mind me asking.

Hi Marlene, There are a few differences, but once you get used to the ileo, learn how to manage it, it's all pretty much the same. The stoma itself will be a little smaller, simply because the ileum is a smaller part of your bowel, so to me that's a bonus. You will find that you need to empty more often, but this really varies from one person to the next, and can depend on your diet and liquid consumption, etc. Your output will be more caustic, which can cause skin irritation, so it can take some time to find an appliance that will fit you well and give you the best wear time. It can take some trial and error. Some people with ileos need to change their pouches more often than those with colostomies, but again, that really varies. I changed every four to five days when I had my colostomy, but through trial and error, I have found a system that works so well for me, that even with an ileo, I only change every six days. The reduced wear time can be due to the caustic nature of one's output, so it depends on how successful you are in finding the right product for you. This can also vary depending on the physical nature of your stoma, how flat the surface of your abdomen is, whether your stoma is raised or flush with your abdomen. You should have a conversation with your surgeon about the placement of your stoma, and about how raised it will be. Ideally, you want it raised well above the surface of your skin, which makes the placement of the appliance much better, and the chance of leaks much reduced. Think of where you want the ileo, in terms of clothing. You have an advantage of being able to plan ahead, which is great. Diet can also be an issue for some ileos. You will need to start slowly in introducing new foods to see what you can tolerate, but give yourself several weeks for healing first. Just soft foods until you are well healed. Because the hole in your gut is not as big as with a colostomy, blockages can be a problem. I am able to eat anything, but everyone is different, and you just need to find out for yourself. Chewing well is really important, and I can't stress this enough. You also need to keep really well hydrated, as your colon is the organ that stores most of the liquid in your diet, so without it, you really need to supplement with lots of liquid intake. Between lots of liquid intake and chewing really well, you should be able to have a normal diet, but it can take some time to get there by introducing new foods gradually in small amounts. My transition was really quite easy and has been such an improvement for me. I hope the same is true for you. If there is anything else you can think of, just ask. Keep in touch, and good luck!

Terry