Ask the Ostomy Doctor

 

Each issue of The Phoenix ostomy magazine features ostomy questions and answers from board-certified colorectal surgeon Dr. Janice Rafferty who is the chief of colon and rectal surgery division at the University of Cincinnati. Dr Rafferty specializes in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, colon and rectal cancer and benign abnormalities of the pelvic floor and anorectal area.   If you have a medical, ostomy related question for Dr. Rafferty, please click here. Questions answered will appear in the The Phoenix ostomy magazine

 

Open Wound

I have had an ileostomy for 31 years. I have a tear on the right side by the base of the stoma. It seems like the tear is getting worse and it burns a lot. It’s like an open wound. I am worried about getting an infection. I’m 78 and I know doctors don’t like to operate on people my age.
J.L.

 

Dear J.L.,

You may not need an operation! Please consult your local ostomy nurse for an exam. Perhaps a change in your pouching technique or supplies will allow this area to heal. The tear is most likely due to trauma from the edge of the appliance and can be resolved with a few minor changes.