A surgically formed passage from the large bowel to the exterior is known as what?

A surgically formed passage from the large bowel to the exterior is known as what?

• A. Fistula
• B. Colostomy
• C. Stoma
• D. Endoscopy

Answer: (B)

A surgically formed passage from the large bowel to the exterior is known as a colostomy. This procedure involves diverting the colon to an opening in the abdominal wall, allowing for the excretion of waste into a colostomy bag, rather than through the rectum. This can be necessary due to various medical conditions, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or traumatic injuries to the bowel.

While related terms also appear in the question, they denote different concepts. A fistula refers to an abnormal connection between two body parts or cavities, often resulting from disease or injury, rather than a surgical procedure specific to the colon. A stoma is the actual opening created during a colostomy and is often used to refer to the opening itself rather than the procedure. Endoscopy involves the use of an instrument to visualize the inside of the body, primarily for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, and does not relate to the creation of a passage from the bowel to the exterior. Thus, colostomy is the most appropriate term for the described surgical procedure.