Common Reasons for a Urostomy

People have urostomy surgery for various medical reasons. Learn about some of the more common reasons why doctors recommend a urostomy. 

Learn about the common reasons for urostomy surgery.

 

 

There are several reasons why people get urostomies. It may be due to an illness, a chronic condition or some form of trauma. The common thread is that the bladder is damaged or defective in some way, which may require another path for urine to exit the body.

Thousands have successful ostomy surgery

During urostomy surgery, a stoma is created that bypasses an injured or diseased part of the urinary system. A urostomy essentially makes a new path for urine to flow out of your body. Regardless of the reason for your urostomy surgery, it may take time to become comfortable with this life-changing procedure. Take comfort in that fact that every year tens of thousands of people of all ages all around the world successfully undergo some type of ostomy surgery.

Why do I need a urostomy?

Below are a few of the more common reasons for urostomy surgery:

• Bladder cancer: Although the incidence of bladder cancer is decreasing slightly, it is still the fourth most common type of cancer in men. A urostomy may be recommended if all or part of your bladder must be removed.
• Trauma: Any type of damage to the bladder may require emergency urostomy surgery. Blunt force trauma or penetrating injuries to the abdomen could cause damage to the bladder.
• Congenital (present at birth): A birth defect in the urinary tract can cause urine to back up into the kidneys, which lead to chronic or repeat infections. In these cases, a urostomy is a life-saving procedure for these children.
• Incontinence or repeated infection:  If you have a defective bladder that causes incontinence or chronic urinary tract infections, your doctor may recommend a urostomy. Some people seek relief from these chronic issues because they cause embarrassment, inconvenience and even skin problems.
• Interstitial cystitis: Also known as painful bladder syndrome, this debilitating disease causes frequent, urgent and painful trips to the toilet. If dietary changes, medication or other treatments have been unsuccessful, a urostomy may be recommended. 

Whatever your reason for needing a urostomy, it’s important to talk to your healthcare team so you can get as much information as possible about your specific condition and why the surgery is your best option. They can answer your questions and address your concerns. 

View or print the full PDF booklet: Understanding Your Urostomy.