[Psychosocial adaptation with an artificial intestinal outlet].

A total of 1625 patients with colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy, including all members of the Swiss ILCO Association, received a questionnaire concerning their medical, social, family and personal situation. 948 questionnaires were analyzed. The mean age was 64 and the time since operation 6 years. 60% regarded their postoperative instruction in stoma care as adequate, but 32% were unhappy with the preoperative information. The transstomal colonic irrigation technique was still unknown to 21% of the colostomy patients and was utilized by only 32%. One year after the operation 69% of the patients with colostomy, 83% with ileostomy and 59% with urostomy in the under-62 age group were fully reintegrated in their professions. Acceptance of the stoma by family and friends was good and there were no major difficulties in practising sports and other hobbies. Sexuality proved to be the most seriously affected aspect of their personal lives, as 33% male and 13% female patients reported major problems.