A colostomy is a surgical procedure which involves opening of the colon to the exterior for the drainage of faecal matter. A colostomy may be temporary or permanent. When is a Colostomy required ? A colostomy is indicated in the following conditions- Congenital conditions In cases of Hirschsprung’s disease or anorectal anomalies, a temporary colostomy is done. Carcinoma In case of rectal carcinomas where an abdomino-peritoneal resection is performed, a permanent end-sigmoid colostomy is done following the procedure. Colonic fistulae Fistulas of the colon occurring as a consequence of diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease or due to tuberculosis, requie a colostomy during their management. Colonic injuries Trauma to the colon due to stab wounds or injuries during an operative procedure like nephrectomy or a percutaneous nephrolithotomy, leads to colonic injuries which require a period of rest to heal. A colostomy is hence performed during the management. Typ...
Cellulitis is a diffuse inflammation of the dermal and subcutaneous layers of the skin caused by haemolytic streptococcus. Pathology Cellulitis occurs when the dermal and subcutaneous layers of the skin get infected by hemolytic streptococcus. The streptococci infect and colonize the subcutaneous layer of the skin. These streptococci produce lytic enzymes like hyaluronidase and streptokinase which breakdown the connective tissue in the subcutaneous layer of the skin. This leads to quick and diffuse spread of the inflammation over a large area. In case of cellulitis affecting areas of the body with loose skin and subcutaneous tissue like in the face, forearm or scrotum, the inflammation spreads fast. Exudation occurs as a result of this inflammation. This exudate spreads in the subcutaneous and facial layers resulting in gross swelling of the affected part. Etiology Cellulitis occurs when streptococci infect wounds in the skin. This can occur in cases of inj...