What is a colostomy?

A colostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening (stoma) from the colon to the abdominal wall. This is typically performed to divert waste from the colon due to conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or a blockage. The stoma serves as an exit point for bodily waste, allowing it to be collected in an external pouch. This procedure is critical for patients who cannot use their rectum or anus for normal bowel movements.

The other options describe different medical procedures that do not pertain to the colostomy. For example, procedures for bone alignment or relieving brain pressure are unrelated to the gastrointestinal system. Similarly, endoscopic examinations focus on visualizing internal structures rather than creating an artificial opening in the body. Therefore, identifying colostomy as the correct answer demonstrates an understanding of its role in patient care and the management of digestive health issues.