What is the primary purpose of an ostomy?

The primary purpose of an ostomy is to divert the flow of feces or urine from the normal route. This is accomplished by creating an opening (stoma) in the abdominal wall through which waste can be expelled, bypassing parts of the digestive or urinary systems that are diseased, damaged, or nonfunctional. For patients with conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or severe urinary issues, an ostomy serves as a crucial intervention to manage their bodily waste and prevent complications that could arise from retaining waste in the body.

Other considerations, like enhancing digestive function, supporting wound healing, or improving physical appearance, may touch on secondary benefits or impacts of having an ostomy but do not capture the fundamental reason for the procedure. The primary focus remains on the necessary diversion of waste, which is essential for maintaining health and quality of life for individuals with specific medical conditions.