Ostomy Care
Adjusting to life with an ostomy can feel overwhelming, whether it’s temporary or permanent.
The CHUM IBD Centre refers our patients to the CHUM Ostomy Clinic to ensure they receive comprehensive ostomy care. This includes individualized education, hands-on guidance and follow-up from nurses and clinicians with expertise in ostomy management. Whether you are preparing for surgery, newly living with an ostomy or seeking ongoing advice, our team, in collaboration with CHUM, helps you manage your ostomy with comfort, skill and confidence.
FAQ
CHUM IBD patients often have questions about ostomy daily care, equipment, lifestyle changes and long-term management.
What happens during an ostomy care appointment?
You’ll meet with a specialized nurse who reviews your medical history, assesses your stoma and skin, answers your questions, and provides tailored guidance on supplies, care routines and symptom management.
What types of ostomy support are offered?
CHUM’s Ostomy Clinic provides stoma assessment, pouching system selection and fitting, skin care guidance, troubleshooting for leaks or irritation, education on diet and lifestyle and long-term follow-up. It also provides advice on skin care, management of ostomy leaks and/or skin irritations, information on diet and lifestyle, as well as long-term follow-up.
Can diet help reduce symptoms or prevent flares?
While diet is not a cure for IBD, targeted nutritional strategies can reduce certain symptoms, support gut health and help manage complications such as nutritional deficiencies, weight fluctuations or food intolerances.
Can you help me choose the right equipment?
The clinicians at the CHUM Ostomy Clinic work with you to find pouching systems and accessories that fit properly and support your comfort, activity level and daily routine.
What if I’m struggling emotionally with the adjustment?
The CHUM IBD Centre understands the emotional impact of ostomy surgery and can connect you with supportive resources, counselling options and peer support when needed.
When would I use the CHUM IBD Centre Ostomy service vs. CHUM’s Ostomy Clinic?
The CHUM IBD Centre Ostomy Services supports patients before and after ostomy surgery, including pre-operative planning, postoperative follow-up, and ongoing care related to living with an ostomy.
We work closely with the CHUM Surgery and Ostomy Clinics, referring patients when specialized surgical care or stoma management is needed, while continuing to coordinate your IBD care within our centre.
Who can access the CHUM IBD Centre’s Ostomy Care services?
This service is available to current patients with a new or existing ostomy who require education, troubleshooting or ongoing support. If you are not a patient, your doctor can submit a referral on your behalf.
IBD is much more than just a painful physical ailment. It affects many facets of everyday life. We can help you manage this.