The Official Ostomy Handbook

In North America alone, there are approximately 70,000 new ostomy surgeries performed every year. If you are reading this, chances are you have had ostomy surgery or are about to. Colostomies, ileostomies and urostomies are performed on people ranging in age from infants to the elderly, for a wide variety of causes. Birth de- fects, disease, complications from other surgeries or childbirth, and severe injury are all reasons why ostomy surgery may be necessary. Whether the ostomy is permanent or temporary, it can be a difficult adjustment for the patient, and for their family and loved ones.

This handbook is based on the experience of those who have had ostomy surgery and/or live with an ostomy. We’ve been through what you may be experiencing and understand the frustrations and fears you may have. It is our hope that this handbook can help answer your questions and reas- sure you that there is much good life to be lived after ostomy surgery.