This topic is about understanding the difference between the general term "ostomy" and the specific procedure called "ileostomy." If you're new to this, it can be a bit confusing, so let's break it down simply.

- "Ostomy" is a broad term that refers to any surgically created opening (called a stoma) that helps divert bodily waste. This includes different types like ileostomies, colostomies, and urostomies.

- An ileostomy involves bringing the end or loop of the small intestine, known as the ileum, through the abdominal wall to create the stoma. The waste output from an ileostomy is usually liquid to paste-like, can happen at any time, and isn't something you can control voluntarily.

- A colostomy involves bringing a part of the large intestine, or colon, to the surface. The waste output here is generally thicker and more formed, and depending on how much of the colon is left, it might look like normal stool. A colostomy can be either temporary or permanent.

- A urostomy is created after the bladder is removed. A passage is made from a part of the small intestine to allow urine to drain from the kidneys into an external pouch.

- It's possible to have an ileostomy without removing the entire colon. For example, a loop ileostomy might later be changed to an end ileostomy, and some people keep their large intestine even after having an ileostomy.

- The word "stoma" comes from an ancient Greek word meaning "mouth" or "opening."

- People who have lived with an ileostomy for a long time often mention that it functions continuously, day and night, and that having a reliable pouching system is important because you don't feel the output.

- The consistency of the output can change with your diet, ranging from watery to as thick as toothpaste.

- It's common for anyone with any type of stoma to be referred to as "ostomy patients.