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Did you know how an ileostomy changes a patient's quality of life?
An ileostomy is a stoma formed by leading the end of the small intestine or the loop of the small intestine (i.e. the ileum) through a surgical opening to the surface of the skin. This stoma allows intestinal waste to pass directly out of the body and be collected using an external ostomy bag. This is usually performed on the right side of the patient's abdomen, usually just above the groin.
Uses of ileostomy
An ileostomy is usually performed when the large intestine cannot safely process waste. There are a variety of conditions that may require surgery to remove part or all of the large intestine, including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and other intestinal diseases. In addition, such surgery may also be performed as an emergency response to rectal or ovarian cancer, such as a blockage caused by a tumor.
How to live after an ileostomy
Patients with an ileostomy usually need an external pouch to collect intestinal waste. These bags can usually be divided into open and closed styles, with many people choosing "drainable" bags that can be emptied, which need to be emptied five to eight times a day. This lifestyle takes some getting used to, and patients must regularly measure their stoma to ensure the bag fits properly.
Some people complain that they need to change their diet, especially when it comes to hard or high-fiber foods that can upset the intestines or even cause blockages.
Generally, patients are advised to seek advice from their medical provider and make dietary adjustments to reduce possible distress. In addition, combined with the use of a urinary catheter or regular stoma check-ups, health status can be effectively maintained.
Alternatives
For some patients, in addition to a conventional ileostomy, other options such as the Barnett Continental Internal Ostomy Reservoir (BCIR) may be considered. BCIR surgery does not require the use of an external stoma bag, but instead creates an internal storage bag through which waste can be extracted through small tubes, often further improving quality of life.
Research shows that most patients who undergo BCIR surgery believe that their quality of life after surgery has been significantly improved.
Success rate of BCIR surgery
A 1995 study of patients who underwent BCIR surgery showed that 92% of patients were functioning well one year after surgery, and most felt a significant improvement in their quality of life.
This study concluded that BCIR represents a successful alternative for patients with traditional ileostomy or who are not candidates for another approach.
Further research on BCIR has proven that it not only has a high success rate, but also makes patients’ lives more convenient and free after surgery.
Summary
Ileostomy and its alternatives such as BCIR are an important life transition for many people, allowing them to regain control of their lives. With the advancement of medical technology, these surgeries not only improve patients' physical condition, but also significantly enhance their quality of life. Have you ever thought about whether surgery like this could be a potential solution to improve your quality of life?
