What is an ostomy?

An ostomy is an opening, or stoma, that a surgeon creates in a person’s body to provide a way for waste to leave the body. A person might have an ostomy to allow part of their digestive system, such as the colon, to rest or heal; or a surgeon may create a permanent ostomy for someone who has had part of the colon removed due to disease or trauma. There are many different types of ostomies, but the methods of caring for all of them are similar.

 We treat the following ostomies:

■ Colostomy
■ Cystostomy
■ Gastrostomy
■ Ileostomy
■ Nephrostomy
■ Urostomy

Program of Care

Individuals with ostomies can and do live active, busy, satisfying lives. The clinical and educational support that Ostomy Services provides is designed to help you reach your goals for a healthy body and a good quality of life.

Our staff addresses the medical aspects of ostomy care by treating any skin problems, helping patients choose the pouching accessories most appropriate for them, and by ensuring that the ostomy accessories are working properly. Our staff also teaches patients how to manage skin problems themselves, where to buy supplies, and how to navigate everyday life—or even travel—with an ostomy.

Individuals with a new ostomy sometimes feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. Our staff will help you with difficult questions like whether or when to tell someone that you have an ostomy, and ways to maintain happy and healthy relationships after your surgery.

Referrals

For a referral or to make an appointment, call Ostomy Services at 301-790-8435. We are available Monday through Friday from 6:30 am–3:00 pm.

Inpatient Wound & Ostomy Services

Our department offers ostomy services to inpatients as well, and we offer bedside wound care to patients in all units of Washington County Hospital upon a physician’s request. To talk with a staff member about these services, please call 301-790-8435.