What are stoma complications? Issues with external waste removal from the stoma.
A stoma is a surgically created connection from the intestine to the skin of the abdominal wall. They are created from the colon (colostomy) or the small bowel (ileostomy) when natural pathways for waste removal are impaired. Typically an appliance is placed over the stoma to collect stool and provide a convenient, odor-free disposal mechanism. An ostomy (external waste removal system) can lead to certain complications, including skin irritation/breakdown and dehydration.