Colostomy Avoidance Surgery Specialist in Phoenix, AZ

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, our experienced surgical team performs colostomy procedures to help patients safely manage a variety of complex colon and rectal conditions. A colostomy is a surgical operation in which an opening, called a stoma, is created from the colon to the surface of the abdomen. This allows waste to bypass a diseased, damaged, or obstructed section of the colon or rectum and exit the body into a specially designed colostomy bag.
 
Colostomies are often necessary for patients facing conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries, or certain congenital defects. We carefully evaluate each patient’s unique needs to determine whether a temporary or permanent colostomy is the best option. Temporary colostomies can give the colon time to heal before restoring normal bowel function, while permanent colostomies are performed when the lower colon or rectum must be removed or cannot function.
 
Our priority is to ensure the safe elimination of waste and to help our patients achieve the best possible quality of life after surgery. We provide comprehensive surgical care, support, and education throughout every step of the colostomy process, from initial consultation to post-operative recovery and ongoing management.

A colostomy is a significant medical procedure in which an opening (stoma) is created in the abdominal wall to allow waste to exit the body when a portion of the colon needs to be bypassed or removed. The seriousness and complexity of this operation depend on the underlying condition—such as colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, bowel obstruction, or traumatic injury—as well as the patient’s overall health and whether the colostomy will be temporary or permanent.
 
Because colostomy surgery involves major changes to the digestive tract, it is considered a major operation and is usually performed under general anesthesia. Patients at Phoenix Unified Surgeons benefit from our multidisciplinary approach, which includes careful preoperative evaluation, advanced surgical techniques, and dedicated post-operative care. We work closely with each patient to minimize risks, which may include bleeding, infection, injury to surrounding organs, blood clots, pneumonia, and anesthesia-related complications.
 
Our team recognizes the physical and emotional adjustments required when living with a stoma. At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, we provide thorough education on stoma care, dietary recommendations, and ongoing support to help our patients adapt and maintain their quality of life. We are committed to helping patients recover and return to their normal activities as soon as possible. In some cases, a colostomy may be reversible, and we guide our patients through every step of that process if appropriate.
 
We encourage anyone considering or needing colostomy surgery to schedule a consultation with our surgeons to discuss individual risks, benefits, and expectations. At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, your health, comfort, and long-term well-being are our top priorities.

How to Reduce Your Risk of a Colostomy: Expert Advice from Phoenix Unified Surgeons

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, we are dedicated to helping patients maintain optimal digestive health and reduce the need for major surgeries like colostomies, which may be required due to conditions such as colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Prioritize Colon Health
Diet: A high-fiber diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports regular bowel movements and reduces the risk of colon diseases.
Hydration & Activity: Staying hydrated and active helps maintain healthy digestion.

2. Lifestyle Choices Matter
Tobacco & Alcohol: Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption, as they increase the risk of colorectal cancer and GI diseases.
Screening & Family History: Regular screenings and colonoscopies are essential for those with a family history of GI issues.

3. Manage Chronic GI Conditions
Managing conditions like inflammatory bowel disease is crucial. Our specialists can guide treatment and minimize complications that might require surgery.

4. Injury Prevention
Prevent traumatic abdominal injuries by using seat belts, being cautious during physical activities, and handling sharp objects carefully.

5. Early Attention to Symptoms
Contact us if you notice persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or rectal bleeding. Early intervention can prevent more serious issues.

Colorectal Cancer Surgery and Colostomy Bags: What Patients at Phoenix Unified Surgeons Should Know

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, we understand the concerns patients may have about the need for a colostomy bag after colorectal cancer surgery. A colostomy bag may be necessary when the colon or rectum cannot be reconnected after removing a cancerous section. However, thanks to advanced techniques, many surgeries can be performed without the need for a permanent colostomy.

Personalized Approaches for Each Patient
Whether a colostomy can be avoided depends on factors like the tumor’s location, stage, and overall health. For tumors higher up in the colon, a primary anastomosis may allow the surgeon to reconnect healthy sections and preserve normal bowel function. In cases of rectal cancer, low anterior resection can preserve the anal sphincter and often avoid a permanent colostomy.

Advanced Surgical Techniques
Our surgeons use minimally invasive options, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries, to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes. While these techniques don’t always eliminate the need for a colostomy, they significantly enhance healing and quality of life.

Your Questions Answered, Your Concerns Addressed
If you’re facing colorectal cancer surgery, we encourage open discussions with our team about all your options. We’re committed to providing clear, compassionate care and are happy to offer second opinions.

Phoenix Unified Surgeons offers specialized colorectal care in Phoenix, AZ, with a team including board-certified general and colorectal surgeons like Dr. Debora J. Fox-McClary. They use advanced and minimally invasive techniques, such as robotic-assisted surgery, complex resections, and colostomy reversals, to treat conditions like cancer, diverticulitis, and inflammatory bowel diseases with the aim of helping patients avoid or reverse a colostomy.
 
Your health and quality of life are our highest priorities at Phoenix Unified Surgeons. Please contact us to schedule a consultation or to learn more about your options for colorectal cancer surgery. For more information, contact us or book your appointment online. Our office is conveniently located at 20333 N 19th Avenue, Ste 230 Phoenix, AZ 85027. We serve patients from Phoenix AZ, Sun City AZ, Peoria AZ, Surprise AZ, Glendale AZ, Scottsdale AZ, and surrounding areas.