The quality of life of patients with an intestinal stoma

Introduction: The main reason for the appearance of the intestinal stoma is colorectal cancer. Surgical procedures with the creation of an artificial anus are often the only chance for oncological patients and others with chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract to achieve clinical remission, avoid progression, and have a longer life. Unfortunately, the quality of life deteriorates, which is a challenge for support groups. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of life of patients with an intestinal stoma. Material and methods: The study involved 100 patients (64 men and 36 women) in the age range from 31 to 70 years after intestinal osteoarthritis surgery in various periods of time. The questionnaire was conducted in the Oncological Hospital of Magodent sp. z o.o. in Warsaw. Patients who underwent ostomy surgery from 0.5 months to over 4 years were included in the study. Results: Most of the respondents (69% of the total) were afraid after the operative treatment of intestinal stoma, and 70% had a sense of harm. 61% of patients struggled with pain, 82% experienced weakness, and 70% experienced tiredness, which had an impact on the increase of difficulties associated with performing daily activities, mainly among patients a short time after surgery (78% of people 0.5 up to 1 year after the procedure). Conclusions: The quality of life of patients after an intestinal stoma was correlated with the time that elapsed from the surgery; the longer it was, the more the patients adapted to life with a stoma.