Comprehensive stoma care and education
Colostomy
Opening made from the large intestine (colon) to the surface of the abdomen.
Output tends to be formed, like a normal bowel motion.
Typically wear a closed ended bag.
Ileostomy
Opening made from the small intestine (ileum) to the surface of the abdomen.
Output tends to be custard/porridge consistency.
Wears a drainable bag to empty output.
Ileal Conduit/Urostomy
Opening made from the small intestine (ileum), the ureters are then joined (conduit) to it to allow urine to flow through. The opening is brought to the surface of the abdomen.
A bag with a small tap is worn to allow it to be emptied.
Parastomal Hernia
Due to the weakend spot in the muscle where the stoma is formed, tissue/bowel is psuhed rhoguh the incision that creates a bulge in the vicinity of the stoma.
Can create challenges with bags fitting properly and managing output.
Hernia belts are available on the Stoma Appliance Scheme (SAS) and prevention is prefered over surgical management if they occur.
Stoma Appliance Scheme
In Australia if you have a Medicare card, you are eligible for supplies on the Stoma Appliance Scheme (SAS).
An authorised person (Stomal Therapy Nurse/GP/Surgeon) can sign you up to the scheme and teach you how to obtain supplies and place orders.
If you don't have a Medicare card, get in touch with your local stoma association or Stomal Therapy Nurse(STN) to see how you can source supplies.
For more informaton on the SAS click here.
Stoma Associations
There are two South Australian stoma associations.
Ileostomy Association of South Australia (IASA) and Ostomy Association of South Australia (OASA).
Follow the links to find out more, as well as information to a variety of Stoma Support Groups within SA.
Every state has their own associations, so please see them if you are out of South Australia.