What Is Cystostomy? Exploring The Pros And Cons Of This Urological Procedure

Cystostomy is a procedure used to drain urine from the bladder by creating an opening in the lower abdominal wall. This surgical procedure is often done in cases of severe urinary obstruction, where other methods have failed. It is also commonly used when a person’s bladder has been damaged or cannot be accessed through traditional means. We will discuss the different types of cystostomy, its risks and benefits, as well as other considerations that one should take into account when determining if this surgery is right for their patient.

What is Cystostomy?

A cystostomy is a surgical procedure in which a small opening is made in the bladder to allow for drainage of urine. This opening, called a stoma, is typically created using a thin, flexible tube known as a catheter. The catheter is inserted through the skin and into the urinary tract, where it is then connected to a drainage bag outside of the body.

Cystostomy surgery may be performed for a variety of reasons, including:

- To relieve urinary retention (the inability to empty the bladder) due to blockage or obstruction in the urinary tract

- To allow for continuous drainage of urine in cases of incontinence or overflow incontinence (when the bladder cannot hold all of its urine)

- To help heal and prevent infection in an open wound or ulcer in the bladder or urethra (the tube that drains urine from the bladder)

- To provide access to the urinary tract for irrigation (flushing out with fluids), sampling of urine (for diagnostic purposes), or instillation of medications

The Pros of Cystostomy

Cystostomy is a surgical procedure in which a permanent or temporary urinary diversion is created by bringing a section of the ureter through the abdominal wall to the outside of the body. This procedure is most often performed when there is blockage or damage to the urinary tract that cannot be corrected with medical treatment.

There are several pros to having a cystostomy, including:

Relief from urinary incontinence: One of the major pros of cystostomy is that it can provide relief from urinary incontinence. This is because the diversion allows for urine to be collected in an external pouch, rather than being released uncontrollably from the body. Prevention of kidney damage: Another pro of cystostomy is that it can help to prevent kidney damage. This is because the procedure can help to relieve pressure on the kidneys by draining urine away from them. Improvement in quality of life: A final pro of cystostomy is that it can improve the overall quality of life for patients. This is because, as mentioned above, it can provide relief from incontinence and prevent kidney damage – both of which can have a major impact on quality of life.

The Cons of Cystostomy

There are a few potential cons to cystostomy that medical professionals should be aware of. First, this procedure involves making an incision in the bladder, which can lead to infection. Additionally, scar tissue can form around the stoma, making it difficult to urinate. In some cases, the stoma may need to be revised or removed entirely. Finally, there is always the risk of complications associated with any surgical procedure.

Who is a Candidate for Cystostomy?

A candidate for cystostomy is typically someone who has had a recent urinary tract infection or blockage. The procedure is also often performed on people who have had their bladder removed or who have a spinal cord injury. Cystostomy can also be an option for people who have been diagnosed with cancer of the bladder or prostate.

The Risks of Cystostomy

There are several risks associated with cystostomy, which is why it is important for medical professionals to be aware of them. One of the most common complications is infection, which can occur at the site of the incision or in the urinary tract. Other risks include bleeding, pain and damage to the urinary tract or surrounding organs. In rare cases, cystostomy can also lead to death.

The Recovery Process After Cystostomy

Cystostomy is a surgical procedure in which a new opening, or stoma is created to allow urine to drain from the bladder. This can be done for several reasons, including bladder cancer, blockages in the urinary tract, or incontinence. The recovery process after cystostomy will depend on the individual and the reason for the surgery. In most cases, there will be some discomfort and swelling around the stoma site. There may also be bruising and soreness in the abdomen from the surgery itself. Most people will need to take it easy for a few days after surgery and then gradually return to their normal activities. Some people may need to wear a urinary catheter for a short time after surgery to help with healing. Others may need to take medication to control pain or help with urination. Overall, most people recover well from cystostomy surgery and are able to return to their normal lives with minimal disruption.

Conclusion

Cystostomy is a beneficial procedure for medical professionals as it can provide relief from symptoms of urological conditions and prevent serious health complications. However, the decision to perform this operation should not be taken lightly and should only be done when other treatment options have failed or are too risky. 

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