Changing your ostomy pouch

Ostomy - pouch change; Colostomy - pouch change; Ileostomy - pouch change

Ileostomy - stoma and pouch

An ileostomy is used to move waste out of the body through a surgically-created opening called a stoma. This surgery is done when the colon or rectum is not working properly. The word ileostomy comes from the words ileum, which is the lowest part of the small intestine, and stoma, which means opening. To make an ileostomy, the surgeon makes an opening in the belly wall and brings the end of the ileum through the opening. The ileum is then attached to the skin. The stoma is connected to a pouch, which needs to be emptied several times a day and changed periodically.

Your Ostomy Pouch

Getting Your Supplies Ready

Changing Your Ostomy Pouch

When to Call the Doctor