Ostomy Care

Support for people with a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy

Ostomy surgery is a life-saving procedure. However, adjusting to life after this procedure can take time. Our team can help you before and after your ostomy surgery with compassionate clinical support and education.

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What’s an ostomy?

An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening (called a stoma) in the body for the discharge of bodily wastes. This procedure is typically performed when a portion of the digestive or urinary system is removed or bypassed.

What are the different types of ostomies?

There are three main types of ostomies.

Colostomy

This involves creating an opening in the colon (large intestine) and bringing it to the surface of the abdomen. Colostomies are often performed to treat conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease or trauma.

Ileostomy

In this procedure, a stoma is created using the ileum (the last part of the small intestine). Ileostomies are typically done when the colon and rectum are removed or need to be bypassed.

Urostomy

This involves redirecting the flow of urine when the bladder is not functioning properly or has been removed. A urostomy creates an opening for urine to be expelled from the body, often into a pouch attached to the abdomen.

What ostomy support does Aspirus St. Luke's provide?

Our team of nationally certified wound, ostomy and continence (WOC) nurses ensures comprehensive care for patients undergoing ostomy surgery. They conduct immediate post-surgery consultations and follow-up appointments to address any questions or concerns. In certain cases, a pre-surgery consult may also be conducted based on the advice of the patient's provider.

Does Aspirus St. Luke's offer ongoing care and support for those who had their ostomy surgery at another healthcare facility?

Absolutely. Plus, no referral is necessary to set up an appointment and establish your ostomy care at Aspirus St. Luke's.

Is there a local ostomy support group?

Yes. The Duluth Area Ostomy Support Group holds meetings that are open to everyone. To learn more, visit the United Ostomy Associations of America’s (UOAA) support group finder and enter your zip code into the search bar.

To schedule an appointment, call 218.249.5203.

Referral not required for this service. To see if your insurance company requires one, call the number on your card.