Source:
American Cancer Society. "How Is Colorectal Cancer Treated?" American Cancer Society, Inc 05 Mar 2008. 24 Feb 2009.
Colostomy Is Not Always Necessary to Treat Colon Cancer
By Amber J. Tresca, About.com Guide
Updated February 26, 2009
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Some people mistakenly believe that surgery to cure colon cancer always require the foromation of a colostomy (the connection of the colon to the skin of the abdomen, allowing for a diversion of stool into an external container or bag. In actuality, a permanent colostomy is usually only necessary when cancer involves the lowest portion of the rectum (closest to the anus). A temporary colostomy (which is then reversed in a few months) may sometimes be used to allow the bowel to heal after surgery for colon cancer.
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