What is a common complication that can occur with a urostomy?

A urostomy, which is a surgical procedure that involves rerouting urine from the kidneys through an opening in the abdominal wall, can lead to several complications, among which urinary tract infections (UTIs) are notably common.

This complication arises because the urostomy can create a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the urinary tract, especially if there are factors such as catheter use or improper stoma care. The presence of urine in the stoma pouch can also increase the risk of UTI due to pooling and stagnant urine, which facilitates bacterial growth.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a UTI is crucial for individuals with a urostomy to seek timely treatment and prevent further complications. While other conditions like constipation, fever, and diarrhea might occur in patients for various reasons, they are not as directly linked to urostomies as urinary tract infections, making this choice the most relevant complication in the context of urostomy care.