Question:

I have a permanent ostomy, my anus and rectum have been removed. People tell me I can experience leakage, is that possible.

Response:

Not everyone with a stoma will have a discharge from the rectum.

One of the most common surgical procedures resulting in the formation of a permanent colostomy is called an Abdomino Perineal Excision of Rectum, or APeR for short. This involves the removal of the rectum and anus. The end result is a scar in the area where the anus used to be, and once this has healed there is no external bowel opening.

In other surgical procedures, such as a Hartmann’s Procedure or the formation of a loop stoma, the rectum is left in place. Ostomates who have had this type of operation may pass a discharge out through the anus.