Women’s Health Library
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Colostomy for colorectal cancer
Anatomy of the colon and rectum
The large intestine (colon) extends from the cecum to the anus and includes the ascending colon, the transverse colon, the descending colon, the sigmoid colon, and the rectum.
Colon cancer site
Cancer is shown in a section of the descending colon.
Colon section removed
Surgery removes the section of colon that contains cancer.
Remaining colon attached to create a stoma
The surgeon connects the end of the remaining section of the colon to an opening made in the skin. This creates a stoma.
Colostomy pouch in place
Body waste passes from the colon through the stoma into a colostomy pouch (or bag), which is taped to your body.
Current as of: July 31, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
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