The colostomy, its reconstruction and care.

Abstract

The purpose of this presentation is twofold: first, to describe a new method of surgical reconstruction of a colostomy, and, second, to outline a simplified plan of management that this reconstruction affords. Colostomy continues to be the price many must pay to survive, and it is our duty to see that they remain happy and useful citizens. The problem, then, is to construct a stoma that causes the least inconvenience. Attempts have been made to construct an abdominal stoma with control but this has not been successful except as reported in a few rare instances. Since even the best constructed and managed colostomy requires the wearing of a small pad, the stoma should be located in an inconspicuous place. The placing of a colostomy in the left lower abdominal quadrant is advocated by many surgeons. Experience has not proved any practical reason for this, and a bulge can be more