Colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the abdomen called a stoma. This procedure is usually performed when there is a blockage in the colon, rectum or anus, or when a section of the intestine needs to be removed. Colostomies are commonly used to treat conditions such as cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and diverticulitis. Comfizz states that there are approximately 13.5 million people worldwide with a stoma.

Medical tourism platforms like Medditour connect the patients seeking colostomy treatment with the international hospitals and facilitators to help them get quality treatment in a cost-effective manner with no delay in time.

This article will explore the purpose and significance of colostomy, as well as how medical tourism can help those who need it.

Purpose of Colostomy

The purpose of a colostomy is to provide an alternative route for fecal matter to leave the body when the normal passage through the rectum and anus is blocked or damaged. The surgeon will create a stoma by cutting an opening in the abdomen and attaching a bag to collect the fecal matter that is passed through the stoma. The stoma can be permanent or temporary, depending on the reason for the procedure.

There are several reasons why a person may need a colostomy. Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent types of cancer in the world, and it often requires surgery to remove the affected area. If the cancer is in the lower part of the colon or rectum, a colostomy may be necessary to allow the remaining part of the colon to heal.

Another reason why a person may need a colostomy is diverticulitis. This condition occurs when small pouches in the colon become infected and inflamed. If the infection is severe, surgery may be required to remove the affected area of the colon and create a colostomy to allow the remaining part of the colon to heal.

Finally, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is another condition that may require a colostomy. IBD is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. If the inflammation is severe, surgery may be required to remove the affected area of the colon and create a colostomy.

Significance of Colostomy

Colostomy can be a life-saving procedure for those who need it. It allows fecal matter to be diverted from the normal route and collected in a bag, which can greatly improve the quality of life for those who would otherwise suffer from bowel obstruction, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.

Additionally, a colostomy can allow for the removal of cancerous or infected tissue, which can be crucial in treating these conditions. By removing the affected tissue, a colostomy can help prevent the spread of cancer or infection to other parts of the body.

NHS states that most people are well enough to leave hospital 3 to 10 days after having colostomy reversal surgery.

Medical Tourism and Colostomy

For those who require a colostomy, medical tourism can be an excellent option. By traveling to another country, patients can access highly skilled surgeons who specialize in colostomy procedures. They can also take advantage of modern medical facilities that may not be available in their home country.

Medical tourism can also be more affordable than receiving treatment in the United States or other Western countries. In some cases, patients can save thousands of dollars by traveling to medical tourism destinations like India, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Dubai, and Turkey for medical care.

Medical tourism companies like Medditour offer excellent opportunities to those requiring colostomy by providing ways to combine their treatment with vacation.

In conclusion, colostomy is a surgical procedure that can greatly improve the quality of life for those who need it. It allows fecal matter to be diverted from the normal route and collected in a bag, which can greatly reduce digestive issues. Medical tourism can be an excellent option for those who require a colostomy, as it allows them to access highly skilled surgeons and affordable treatments.