Question:
What causes a large stoma?

Just wondering what causes a large stoma? thanks for the info.    — Melodee S. (posted on May 10, 2003)

May 10, 2003
I don't see that they are "caused", so much as they happen. They happen to diligent people, to people who are not careful about portions & grazing and to those who never knew any better. The only common denominator I have seen is that they tend to occur more often in a horizontal pouch (with the intestine off to the side). Not to say they NEVERhappen to vertical, but the liklihood seems to run higher with the "chute" type pouch. Whenever it does occur, it is heartbreaking, and does so much damage to the victim's mental health! But it is a very real phenomenon. And blameless.
   — vitalady

May 10, 2003
From my understanding; when a surgeon makes your new pouch he makes it a certain size with the 'understanding' there will be some 'normal' shrinking. Some people have excess shrinking - which causes 'strictures'; THEN there are a 'few' that the opening doesnt strink at all after surgery; and your left with a 'large' stoma. Its not something that can be 'predicted'. BUT I would like to 'note' that a DS does eliminate the possibility of having this problem. BUT since insurances' are still forcing alot of people to have the RNY; its something a pre op needs to know could happen. I also like the last post answer cause it DOES cause alot of mental issues if it does happen; especially to someone who doesnt know what is happening...
   — star .