Types of Stoma: Colostomy and Ileostomy Explained

There are different types of stoma that may be used after bowel surgery. In bowel cancer care, the two main types are colostomy and ileostomy. A stoma may be temporary or permanent depending on the surgery and the person’s medical situation.

This article is for general information only. Your surgeon and stoma nurse can explain which type of stoma applies to you and how to care for it.

What Is a Colostomy?

A colostomy is a stoma made from the colon, which is part of the large bowel. Waste leaves the body through the colostomy and collects in a colostomy bag.

Output from a colostomy is often more formed than output from an ileostomy because the large bowel absorbs water from waste. However, output can still vary from person to person.

What Is an Ileostomy?

An ileostomy is a stoma made from the ileum, which is part of the small bowel. Output from an ileostomy is often softer or more liquid because it has not passed through the full large bowel.

People with an ileostomy may need to pay closer attention to fluids, salts and output changes. Your healthcare team can give specific advice.

Temporary Stoma

A temporary stoma may be used to allow the bowel to heal after surgery. If a stoma is temporary, another operation may be planned later to reverse it, depending on healing and medical suitability.

Your surgeon can explain whether reversal may be possible and when it might be considered.

Permanent Stoma

A permanent stoma may be needed if the bowel cannot be rejoined safely or if surgery removes areas needed for normal bowel control. This can be a major adjustment, but support is available.

For daily life information, read our Living With a Stoma article.

Loop and End Stomas

Some stomas are described as loop stomas or end stomas. These terms describe how the bowel is brought to the surface. Your surgeon or stoma nurse can explain the details of your operation in simple language.

Support and Education

Before and after surgery, a stoma nurse can teach you how to care for the stoma, use appliances, protect the skin and manage daily activities.

You may also read our How the Stoma Works and Support for People With a Stoma guides.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the different types of stoma can help you ask better questions and feel more prepared. Your healthcare team can explain whether you have a colostomy, ileostomy, temporary stoma or permanent stoma.