Etymed
colostomy
Definition
surgical procedure creating an opening in the colon to divert fecal matter
Clinical context
A 65-year-old man with severe ulcerative colitis develops toxic megacolon and requires emergency surgery. The surgical team creates a temporary colostomy to allow the inflamed colon to heal. The patient's stool now exits through a stoma in his abdominal wall into a collection bag.
Mnemonic
COLA - Colostomy = Colonic Outlet Abnormal