Treatment Types

Living with an Ostomy

An ostomy (or stoma) is a surgical opening made in the skin when a problem is not allowing a part of the body to function well. A tracheostomy is done for breathing problems, while an abdominal (belly) ostomy can allow wastes to leave from the intestines (ileostomy or colostomy) or from the bladder (urostomy). Get practical tips for managing a tracheostomy, colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy.

American Cancer Society Emails

Sign up to stay up-to-date with news, valuable information, and ways to get involved with the American Cancer Society.

More Resources

Learn about surgery for your cancer type