4myson wrote:
> I currently have a left sided colostomy. I was considering changing to
> an eliostomy until I got some negative feedback. My question is: Does
> anyone know if a left sided colostomy can be switched to the right
> side? I know I could find out from my surgeon but, I am more
> comfortable talking to you all since you have a little more experience.
> I was told I cannot keep my colostomy on the left side because of my
> extremely large hernia. Any help anyone can give me would be great.
> Best wishes to all.
>
> AnnMarie
>
My colostomy is on the left side, also. I was diagnosed with stage 3
colon cancer 12/1999. I have been NED for the last three years.
My colostomy has been in the same location since a little after 6/2000.
When the ET nurse marked a spot, she didn't listen to me and marked it
right in the area where my belt goes. Further, I developed a large
hernia, around the size of a cantaloupe. I talked to my surgeon who
said I also had developed some adhesions. When he went in again to
correct the adhesions, he also attempted to repair the hernia, an
attempt which did not succeed. He tried again, using a surgical mesh to
strengthen the abdominal wall and he also moved my colostomy down about
1 1/2" (3.5 cm). Both of these procedure were successful. The hernia
has been no problem since this surgery and the stoma is in a much better
position for me.
I suggest you talk to your surgeon about what is possible in your case.
My colostomy does not prevent me from doing anything I wish to do...
Regards...
Tom
--
Thomas M. Spillman, Jr.
Asst. Professor (retired)
Information Technology
MBA Program
School of Management
St. Edward's University
Austin, TX
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