Princeton Surgical Associates

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure performed to examine the inside of the colon and rectum; it is used to determine causes of abdominal pain; rectal bleeding; and changes in bowel activity. It is also used to detect early signs of cancer. Colonoscopies are recommended every 10 years for everyone between the ages of 50 and 75. They may be recommended more frequently, or at a younger age, for people at elevated risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC), typically patients with certain medical conditions or with a family history of the disease. Colonoscopies are also performed as follow-ups to other screening tests with positive results, such as a fecal occult blood tests. Preparing for a Colonoscopy In preparation for a colonoscopy, patients are given a set of written instructions to follow. While the instructions may differ slightly from one doctor to another, typically patients are instructed to drink two to four quarts of special bowel cleansing solution (laxative) the day before the procedure. An enema may also be required. This preparation, though unpleasant, is necessary to cleanse the bowel so the doctor can visualize the area completely. Medications that act as blood thinners usually have to be temporarily discontinued in preparation for a colonoscopy. During the day of preparation for a colonoscopy, patients are instructed to eat only gelatin (not red or purple), and to drink only clear fluids, such as water, apple or white grape juice, plain tea or coffee, clear broth, and soft drinks and sports drinks without red or purple coloration. The reason for avoiding red or purple beverages and gelatin is that they could be mistaken for blood during the procedure. The Colonoscopy Procedure Before colonoscopy, a sedative is administered intravenously (with an IV) so the patient is relaxed and comfortable. Vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure. A patient lies on the left side of the body as the colonoscope is inserted into the anus, and guided through the rectum and colon (large intestine) to the opening of the small intestine (cecum). A colonoscope is a flexible, lighted tube that is lubricated before insertion; it enables the doctor to carefully examine the lining of the colon, and to create and record computer images. Any polyps found are removed for biopsy during the procedure. A colonoscopy usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes, but may take somewhat longer if polyps require removal. Polyps are removed because they may be malignant or may eventually become so. They are removed by an electrical current's passing through a wire loop that cuts them from the colon wall. Once removed, the polyps are sent to a laboratory for microscopic analysis. If the doctor observes a larger growth or tumor, a biopsy of its tissue will also be done. After a Colonoscopy After the procedure, patients are kept under observation for up to 2 hours, until the sedative used wears off. The patient's reflexes and judgment may be temporarily impaired, and driving is not permitted for 24 hours. Therefore, patients should make preparations to be driven home. Some patients experience a drop in blood pressure or a change in heart rhythms during a colonoscopy due to the sedative administered, but this also is usually temporary and inconsequential. Because gas has been pumped into the intestinal tract during the colonoscopy, some patients experience gas pains, bloating or abdominal cramping, but these, too, are temporary. If a polyp has been removed during a colonoscopy, the patient may observe a small amount of blood in the stool for a day or two after the procedure. This is entirely normal. Complications of a Colonoscopy Complications of a colonoscopy are rare, but, if they do occur, require prompt medical attention. These complications include the following: Excessive rectal bleeding Fever Abdominal pain Dizziness Bleeding from a biopsy site Adverse reaction to IV medication In extremely rare instances, the intestinal wall is punctured by the colonoscope, a complication known as "perforation." This complication is suspected if the patient suffers severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting after the test. Perforation can lead to dangerous abdominal infection. It is life-threatening, and must be repaired surgically.

A wound is a break in the skin or tissues that may be caused by an accident, injury, surgery, disease or several other factors, and often involves bleeding, redness, swelling, pain, tenderness and other symptoms. They may occur nearly anywhere on the body. While many wounds can be treated at home by simply cleaning and bandaging the wound, more severe wounds may require professional care. Many patients with skin ulcers, burns and other types of wounds face difficulty with the healing process for these troubling wounds, especially if the patient is diabetic. There are several different treatment options available for wounds resistant to conventional therapies. Some of these may include creams, ointments, synthetic skin grafts and other therapies that promote natural healing within the skin to avoid wound complications. We are proud to offer patients many advanced solutions to their wound healing problems. It is important for wounds to remain clean and free of debris and bacteria in order to properly heal and prevent infection, so proper dressings that are changed on a regular basis are essential. We provide a clean, moist environment that is conducive to healing for most wounds and helps lead toward a quick and efficient recovery, while keeping cosmetic concerns in mind as well. Your doctor will determine which type of wound care is best for you after an initial evaluation of your wound size, location and severity. Diabetic Wound Management People with diabetes are at high risk for developing problems with their feet. Ulcers and other wounds commonly form on the bottom of the foot and can easily become infected or lead to other serious complications. Ulcers may develop as a result of poor circulation, lack of feeling in the feet, irritation or trauma. Once a wound has been detected, it should be treated immediately in order to prevent complications from developing. Diabetic wound treatment focuses on relieving pressure from the area and removing dead skin cells and tissue through a process called debridement. The wound is then medicated and dressed to prevent infection and promote healing. For more severe wounds, patients may be required to wear special footwear or a brace to relieve pressure and irritation to the wound. Skin Grafts Large, severe wounds that cannot be sewn back together for proper healing may require the use of a skin graft, which is a piece of skin taken from another part of the body to be placed over the site of the wound. The graft is excised through a minimally invasive procedure (often from the leg or arm) and then applied to the wound and secured in place with stitches. The wound is covered with a dressing during the healing process. A graft is often effective in facilitating more efficient healing, as well as providing a more aesthetically-pleasing result. Although a scar will likely be left, it will be much less prominent than if no graft had been applied to the wound. Debridement Debridement removes dead tissue from ulcers, burns and other wounds to promote the healing process and reduce the risk of infection. When dead tissue on a wound is exposed to air, it forms a hard crust called an eschar that can hinder healing and lead to bacteria, infection and abscesses. While debridement seems beneficial to the healing process, not all wounds need this procedure. Debridement can be performed through surgical, mechanical, chemical or autolytic methods, depending on the health and severity of the wound. Surgical debridement is the quickest and most efficient type of procedure, which involves the use of a scalpel, scissors or other instrument to cut dead tissue from a wound. To learn more about our wound care services, please call us today to schedule an appointment.

An aneurysm is an abnormal bulge in the wall of an artery, an inflated balloon of blood. Aneurysms can occur in many parts of the body. They usually develop where pressure is strongest, that is, in areas where blood vessels divide and branch off. An aneurysm is extremely dangerous since it may result in rupture and subsequent hemorrhage or in the development of a serious clot, leading to a stroke or heart attack. Types of Aneurysm Aneurysms can occur in many different parts of the body. They are usually categorized according to the types which occur most frequently: Aortic Cerebral Abdominal Thoracic Peripheral aneurysms occur elsewhere in the body, possibly in the legs, neck, or groin. Causes of an Aneurysm There is no clearly recognized cause for the development of an aneurysm, but there are risk factors which make it more likely that a particular individual may develop one. These risk factors may include: Poor elasticity of arterial walls Plaque buildup on arterial walls High blood pressure High cholesterol Smoking Pregnancy Infections of the blood Some aneurysms are present at birth. Others may result from a slight congenital defect in part of an arterial wall. Symptoms of an Aneurysm Aneurysms within the body or brain often cause no visible symptoms. If an aneurysm occurs near the body's surface, however, a throbbing mass may be visible. Symptoms of aneurysms may include: A pulsating lump Cramps of arms or legs during exercise Pain in arms or legs during rest Painful sores or ulcerations of the toes or fingers Radiating pain or numbness in the arm or leg Gangrene (tissue death) The rupture of an aneurysm is life-threatening. Symptoms may include low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and lightheadedness. Diagnosis of an Aneurysm Diagnosis of an aneurysm is done through a thorough physical examination and the use of diagnostic tests which may include: CT scan, MRI scan, ultrasound and angiography. If a ruptured aneurysm is suspected a cerebrospinal fluid analysis may be ordered. Treatment of an Aneurysm There are several ways to treat aneurysms depending on their location and severity. If an aneurysm is discovered in its early stages, the doctor can often keep it from rupturing with medication and regular checkups to see whether the aneurysm is enlarging. If surgery is necessary because the aneurysm has enlarged, is leaking or is believed to be in danger of rupturing, such surgery may be done in one of several ways. The doctor may make use of X-rays during the surgery to guide the stent to the proper location. The prognosis for successful surgery is usually excellent if the medical intervention is done in a timely fashion. Surgery for an aneurysm involves replacing the weakened section of the affected blood vessel with an artificial tube, or graft. This procedure may be performed in one of two ways. Open Surgery During this repair procedure, the surgeon makes a large incision in the abdomen or chest in order to replace the damaged part of the artery. Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) In this procedure, the surgeon uses a tiny tube, or stent, to prop open a blood vessel or to reinforce its wall. Since this procedure is minimally invasive, recovery time is shorter. Endovascular repair, however, is not appropriate for all patients and may require more follow-up maintenance than an open procedure. Following surgery, patients are instructed to maintain a healthy body weight, eat foods low in fat content, stop smoking and engage in some form of aerobic exercise in order to reduce the risk of another aneurysm.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is often caused by atherosclerosis, an accumulation of plaque in the peripheral arteries, which carry blood to the arms, legs and internal organs. Atherosclerosis causes the peripheral arteries to narrow and harden, and/or become blocked. By reducing the amount of blood that flows to the limbs and organs, atherosclerosis increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and transient ischemic attack. It can also cause limbs to become infected and, in severe cases, gangrenous. Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease Many people with peripheral artery disease do not display symptoms. For those that do, symptoms may include the following: Leg pain that occurs during exercise and ceases during rest Numbness, coldness, change of color or loss of hair in the legs or feet Cramps in the legs or hips Paleness or blueness, or weak or absent pulse, in a limb Change in gait Sores on the legs, feet or toes that do not heal Diagnosis of Peripheral Artery Disease Often, a physical exam provides the first indication of peripheral artery disease. There are also a number of tests used to detect its presence. They include the following: Ankle-brachial index (ABI) Doppler ultrasound Angiogram Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) arteriogram Plethysmogram Venogram If PAD is severe, the patient is often referred by a primary care physician to a vascular specialist or cardiologist. Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease There are several treatments for peripheral artery disease, and the majority of them involve lifestyle changes. Treatment includes the following: Supervised exercise routine Modifications to diet Stopping smoking Lowering blood sugar (if diabetic) Managing high blood pressure Medication If lifestyle changes and medication are not effective, one of the following may be recommended. Angioplasty and Stenting During angioplasty, a catheter with a balloon on its end is inserted into the blocked artery, and gently expanded, pushing open the blockage and restoring blood flow to the area. The catheter is then removed. A stent, which is a tiny metal cylinder, is sometimes placed in the artery to ensure that it remains open. Cryoplasty Cryoplasty, also known as cryoballoon angioplasty, is a nonsurgical technique that combines cold therapy with angioplasty. During cryoplasty, nitrous oxide is delivered to the blocked artery to freeze the plaque. The frozen plaque breaks up, and is then removed from the artery. Cryoplasty minimizes the growth of scar tissue, which may reduce the possibility of future blockages. Atherectomy Atherectomy is a procedure to remove plaque from the artery walls with a sharp blade that has been attached to the end of a catheter. The catheter then collects the plaque that has been shaved or cut off. Atherectomy is used in blood vessels that cannot be stented or that have branches. In some cases, a laser is used to remove plaque. Bypass Grafting Bypass grafting restores circulation by grafting (connecting) a blood vessel to a blocked artery, and then rerouting blood flow around it. Grafting uses either a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body or a device made of synthetic material. Although PAD affects people of all ages, it is most common in those older than 50.

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins, most commonly found on the legs, by collapsing them through the use of a solvent. Sclerotherapy has been used on patients since the 1930s with great success, producing increasingly effective medical, as well as cosmetic, results. Reasons for Sclerotherapy Some of the reasons a patient may desire, or a physician may recommend, sclerotherapy may include one or more of the following symptoms: Pain, aching or burning sensations in the legs or feet Swelling or redness at the site Cramping of the legs, especially at night Scaly, dry or discolored skin at the site Discomfort after sitting or standing for long periods Individuals troubled by varicose veins may choose, in consultation with their physician, to undergo sclerotherapy either because they find them unattractive or because the diseased veins are causing unpleasant and/or dangerous symptoms. The Sclerotherapy Procedure During sclerotherapy, a solution of saline and a sclerosant is injected into the damaged veins. This will cause irritation in the affected veins and produce their eventual collapse. During this procedure, the surgeon is guided through the use of ultrasound to ensure precision. When the weakened veins collapse, they will be reabsorbed into the body and other healthier veins will take their place in the circulatory system. Sclerotherapy has proven to be a safe procedure and is performed outpatient in the doctor's office. Typically, sclerotherapy is performed in less than an hour, although a varying number of injections may be required, depending on the number of veins involved. Patients do not require an anesthetic and usually report little or no discomfort during the procedure, only a mild burning sensation. In some instances, several sclerotherapy treatments may be necessary. Risks of Sclerotherapy Although sclerotherapy is a safe procedure that has been successfully performed for many years, there are certain risks associated with any medical procedure. Certain minimal, temporary side effects are to be expected, including bruising and discoloration. More serious complications are rare, but may include: Inflammation Swelling, warmth and discomfort around the injection site may indicate the presence of an infection for which the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Blood Clot A lump of clotted blood may form in a treated vein and require drainage. Rarely, a deeper blood clot may develop, known as a deep vein thrombosis. Since there is danger that such a clot will break off and travel to the chest, resulting in a pulmonary embolism, such a clot requires urgent medical attention. Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness or the coughing up of foamy blood are signs of pulmonary embolism and must be addressed immediately. Air Bubbles Tiny air bubbles may rise in the bloodstream. These may not result in any symptoms, but if the patient experiences visual disturbances, headache, coughing or nausea, the physician should be contacted. Nerve Damage Numbness or odd sensations in the affected limb following sclerotherapy should always be investigated. While rare, it's possible for a patient to have a severe allergic reaction to the sclerosant used in the treatment. Recovery from Sclerotherapy Patients are able to return home shortly after sclerotherapy. Most can return to work and resume normal activities the next day, although exercise and strenuous activities are to be avoided a week or two. Compression bandages usually need to be worn for a week or so after the procedure. While it may take up to a month for the patient to see full results, some improvement is usually visible immediately. In order to promote vascular health and to preserve the positive effects of the sclerotherapy, it is recommended that patients maintain a healthy weight and make exercise part of their daily routine.

To learn more about our Endocrine Surgeon, Tomer Davidov M.D., Please visit tomerdavidovmd.com The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the throat that controls the body's heart rate, temperature and metabolism. Cancer of the thyroid gland can interfere with that contol, and lead to other complications. Fortunately, thyroid cancer can usually be successfully treated through minimally invasive methods. Thyroid tumors are somewhat common, and most are not cancerous. Cancer can develop as a result of age, exposure to radiation, or having a family history of goiters, cancer or other diseases. The thyroid is made up of follicular cells and C cells, either of which may develop cancer. Risks Factors for Thyroid Cancer The following may increase the risk of getting certain types of thyroid cancer: Being between 25 and 65 years old Being female Being Asian or Caucasian Having a family history of thyroid disease Having a family history of precancerous polyps in the colon Carrying an abnormal RET oncogene Having a diet low in iodine Having had radiation treatments to the head and/or neck also increases a person's risk of thyroid cancer. Types of Thyroid Cancer There are four types of cancer that develop in the thyroid gland, and one that develops in glands in the neck. Papillary Cancer The most common form of thyroid cancer, papillary cancer usually appears as a single mass in one lobe of the thyroid. It is slow-growing, but can spread to the lymph nodes. It is most common in women between 30 and 50 years old. Follicular Cancer The second-most-common form of thyroid cancer, follicular cancer usually remains in the thyroid gland. If it does spread, it is often to other parts of the body, such as the lungs and bones, rather than the lymph nodes. Medullary Cancer Accounting for about 2 percent of thyroid cancers, medullary cancer develops in the C cells of the thyroid gland. It can run in families, and spread to other parts of the body even before a mass in the thyroid is discovered. The treatment outcome for this type of cancer is usually not as good as it is for papillary and follicular cancers. Anaplastic Cancer A rare form of thyroid cancer, anaplastic cancer accounts for about 1 percent of all cases. It is fast-growing, often spreads to other parts of the body, and is quite difficult to treat. It usually affects people older than 60. Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer Symptoms or signs of thyroid cancer include the following: A bump or lump in the neck that may grow rapidly Swelling in the neck Pain in the front of the neck that may run up to the ears Hoarseness or other voice changes that do not go away Difficulty swallowing Wheezing or difficulty breathing A constant cough that is not due to a cold can also be a symptom of thyroid cancer. Diagnosis of Thyroid Cancer Thyroid cancer can be diagnosed through a series of tests. Once diagnosed, further testing can help determine the cancer's stage and whether it has spread. Diagnostic tests include the following: Surgical biopsy Ultrasound exam CT/CAT scan Laryngoscopy Blood tests A fine-needle-aspiration biopsy may also be performed to diagnose thyroid cancer. Treatment of Thyroid Cancer Surgery is the most common treatment for thyroid cancer. It is the only way to ensure complete removal of cancer cells, and greatly reduce the risk of recurrence. Types of surgery include the following: Lobectomy (removal of lobe in which the cancer is found) Near-total thyroidectomy (removal of all but a very small part of the thyroid) Total thyroidectomy (removal of the entire thyroid) Lymphadenectomy (removal of cancerous lymph nodes from the neck) Additional standard treatments include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, thyroid hormone therapy and targeted therapy. Thyroid cancer may be slow-growing enough to allow treatment to be delayed, although anyone who chooses to postpone treatment should be closely monitored by a physician.

Graves' disease is a disorder of the immune system resulting in the overproduction of hormones by the thyroid gland, or hyperthyroidism. Like most other immune system irregularities, its cause is unknown, though research to date has shown that heredity, age, gender and stress level are risk factors for the condition. Graves' disease is the most frequent cause of hyperthyroidism and is most common in women between 20 and 40 years of age. Graves' disease is usually treatable and may even resolve on its own over time. Left untreated, however, a severe case can become life-threatening. Symptoms of Graves' Disease Graves' disease causes many symptoms similar to those found in patients with other types of hyperthyroidism, but is the only form of hyperthyroidism to affect the eyes. About half of the patients with Graves' disease have eye symptoms, including: bulging eyes, dry eyes, pressure, pain, redness or puffiness of the eyes, excessive tearing, light sensitivity and double vision. Since the thyroid gland helps to regulate multiple organs and muscles, the other symptoms of Graves' disease are many and varied, affecting numerous parts of the body. Symptoms of Graves' disease may include: Trouble sleeping, fatigue, anxiety, irritability Sweating, rapid or irregular heartbeat Hand tremors, muscle weakness Sensitivity to heat Unexplained weight loss Goiter, an enlarged thyroid gland Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea Eye problems, known as Graves' ophthalmopathy Thick, red skin on the shins or feet, known as Graves' dermopathy Graves' disease may also cause changes in menstrual cycles, erectile dysfunction, and reduced libido. Diagnosis of Graves' Disease Graves' disease is diagnosed through a physical examination and a blood test to determine the patient's serum level of thyroid hormones. Imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI scan may also be performed. Since the thyroid gland requires iodine to produce its hormones, the physician may also order a radioactive iodine uptake test. Treatment of Graves' Disease Treatment for this disease depends on the severity of the disease and the patient's overall health. Treatment may include beta blockers, anti-thyroid medication, and radioactive iodine. In severe cases, if other methods of treatment are unsuccessful, surgery may be performed to remove all or part of the thyroid. Risks of Graves' Disease If left untreated, Graves' disease can result in a condition known as a thyrotoxic storm or thyrotoxicosis, a life-threatening emergency. During a thyrotoxic storm, the patient spikes an extremely high fever, has severe tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) and presents with extreme agitation, shaking, sweating and confusion. While a rare occurrence, a thyrotoxic storm may cause pulmonary edema, heart failure and death.

Rectal cancer develops in the tissues of the rectum, which is the final six inches of the colon that extend to the anus. Most cases of rectal cancer begin as small, benign clusters of cells (called polyps) on the lining of the rectum. Certain types of polyps, called adenomas, can become malignant. Screening to locate and remove precancerous polyps can prevent rectal cancer from developing, so it is recommended that polyps be removed early in their growth. Risk Factors for Rectal Cancer Rectal cancer, which is more common in people older than 40, has risk factors that include the following: Family history of colorectal cancer History of polyps History of other cancer Hereditary conditions that include familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer also put people at higher risk for rectal cancer. Symptoms of Rectal Cancer Initially, many people with rectal cancer are asymptomatic. As the cancer progresses, however, they may have one or more of the following symptoms: Change in bowel habits or stool consistency Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain Feeling that the bowel is not emptying completely Weakness or fatigue Unexplained weight loss or a change in appetite can also be symptoms of rectal cancer. Diagnosis of Rectal Cancer Rectal cancer is diagnosed through a physical examination, review of symptoms, and review of the medical history of the patient and her or his family. Diagnostic tests for detecting it include the following: Digital rectal examination Barium enema Fecal occult blood test Colonoscopy Carcinoembryonic-antigen (CEA) assay A sample of rectal tissue may be taken, and sent to a lab for analysis. If rectal cancer is diagnosed, X-rays, CT scans and MRI scans may be performed to determine if cancer cells have spread within the rectum or to other parts of the body. Treatment of Rectal Cancer Surgery is the most common form of treatment for rectal cancer at any stage of its progression. There are several types of surgery used to excise or destroy malignant tissue and a surrounding margin. For some patients, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or biological therapy are performed instead of, or in addition to, surgery. Prevention of Rectal Cancer There are many steps that can be taken to lower the risk of developing rectal cancer. Following a healthful low-fat diet that is high in fiber and antioxidants, drinking alcohol in moderation, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, and refraining from smoking all decrease the chances of developing it. Regular colonoscopies are recommended for those who meet the following criteria: Are older than 50 Are African-American and older than 45 Are at high-risk for rectal cancer Colonoscopies are important because they can detect prostate cancer in its early stages, and remove suspicious rectal polyps before they become malignant.

A colostomy is a surgical procedure performed to attach one end of the large intestine to an opening in the abdominal wall (a stoma) through which body waste drains into a bag designed for the purpose. This operation is performed when a section of the colon has to be removed due to illness, infection or injury in order to give the remaining portion of the colon a chance to heal. The procedure may be performed as a temporary measure until healing takes place, or may be a permanent solution, especially when the rectum has also been removed. Reasons for a Colostomy A colostomy may be performed for a number of reasons, including damage to, or obstruction of, the colon as a result of: Diverticulitis Inflammatory bowel disease Traumatic injury Gastrointestinal infection, such as perforated abscess Colorectal cancer Lower intestinal blockage Fistula in the perineum If the condition that necessitates the colostomy heals completely, the colostomy can be reversed. The colon is surgically reconnected so that the patient is once again able to defecate normally. The Colostomy Procedure A colostomy is performed under general anesthesia in one of two ways: with as an open operation or a laparoscopic one. The traditional open surgery requires a large abdominal incision, whereas the laparoscopic one involves several small cuts in the abdomen. During the latter, the surgery is performed with the aid of a miniature camera, a computer screen and small surgical tools. Although the location of the stoma varies according to which part of the colon is damaged, the opening is usually created on the left side of the abdomen. The tissue of the colon is stitched to attach to the outer skin to create a sturdy opening. A bag known as a stoma appliance is placed over the perimeter of the stoma to catch and contain the patient's feces. In cases where the colostomy is performed as a temporary measure, once the patient's body has healed, there will be a second surgery to reattach the ends of the large intestine and close the stoma. This reparative surgery usually takes place about 12 weeks after the original procedure. Risks of a Colostomy While colostomies have become relatively common procedures and are generally considered safe, there are risks inherent in any surgical procedure. Risks of any surgical procedure may include: Internal bleeding Breathing difficulty Damage to adjacent organs Postsurgical infection Reopening of the wound Adverse reaction to anesthesia or medication Overgrowth of scar tissue Development of a hernia at the incision site The risks of a colostomy procedure in particular include the chance that there will be a complication with the stoma, either in terms of a blockage developing, or in terms of a collapse of the stoma itself (stoma prolapse). Recovery From a Colostomy After a colostomy, the patient usually remains hospitalized for 3 days to a week, somewhat longer if the operation was performed as an emergency procedure. Immediately after a colostomy, patients may be given ice chips to suck on to ease thirst. Thereafter, their diet will progress from clear liquid to thicker liquids, soft foods and them harder foods. Many patients are able to resume eating normally within 2 days after surgery. After a colostomy, patients must learn, from a trained ostomy nurse, how to empty and replace their colostomy bags. The process is not difficult, but requires scrupulous sanitary precautions.