Given the important benefits, living with a diverting stoma can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. The flow of stool into the pouch takes place spontaneously, with no patient control, so the stoma requires special care and attention – attaching, cleaning and draining the pouch and the surrounding skin. There are risks for leakage, potential noticeable bulges under a person’s clothing, as well as adjustments in social, day-to-day, physical activities and sexual routine.
After the healing period, a second operation is performed to reconnect the intestines and remove the pouch, requiring additional hospitalization and recuperation.
The diverting stoma is currently the standard treatment following colorectal surgery.