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…

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Colostomy Pouch

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Colostomy for colorectal cancer

Anatomy of the colon and rectum

The colon and rectum and where they are in the body
slide 1 of 5
slide 1 of 5, 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 in the wall of the descending colon
slide 2 of 5
slide 2 of 5, Colon cancer site,

Cancer is shown in a section of the descending colon.

Colon section removed

Possible stoma sites
slide 3 of 5
slide 3 of 5, Colon section removed,

Surgery removes the section of colon that contains cancer.

Remaining colon attached to create a stoma

A stoma for a colostomy
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slide 4 of 5, 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

A colostomy bag positioned on the stoma
slide 5 of 5
slide 5 of 5, 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 ofDecember 19, 2018

Author: Healthwise Staff
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Kenneth Bark MD - General Surgery, Colon and Rectal Surgery

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.