Who might need an ostomy?
Ostomy surgery can be performed on people of all ages, including infants. A small number of patients may require two ostomies: one into the bowel and one into the urinary system. The most common types of cancers where ostomies may (but not always) be performed are: • Ovarian cancer: Cancer of the ovaries may spread in the abdominal cavity, obstructing either the small or large intestine and could require an ileostomy or colostomy. • Small bowel cancer or ovarian cancer: If cancer has spread to the small bowel an ileostomy may be made. • Rectal cancer: If the rectum is removed, a colostomy is made. • Cervical cancer: Because the cervix and the uterus are between the bladder and the rectum, there may be a urostomy or colostomy. • Bladder and urethra cancer: If either the bladder or urethra is removed, a urostomy is formed. • Small intestine cancer: If cancer affects the small bowel, an ileostomy may be formed. • Colon cancer: Depending on the location of cancer in the colon, a colostomy
