This topic is about the different positions where a stoma, specifically an ileostomy, can be placed on the abdomen. The person who started the discussion noticed that their stoma is positioned higher than most, and they are curious about the factors that determine its location.

Here are some helpful insights and advice on this topic:

1. The type of surgery you have can influence stoma placement. For example, if you have had a total proctocolectomy, where the entire colon and rectum are removed, this can affect where the stoma is positioned.

2. Before surgery, an ostomy or wound-care nurse usually marks the best spot for the stoma on your abdomen. They consider things like skin folds, creases, and how you usually stand or sit to find a flat and visible area that will work well with ostomy appliances.

3. Surgeons try to place the stoma in a spot that makes it easy for you to see and care for it. This means the stoma might be higher or lower on the abdomen, depending on your unique body shape and size.