What does a lacerated stoma indicate?

• A. Stoma has been torn or cut.
• B. Stoma is inflamed.
• C. Stoma is obstructed.
• D. Stoma is retracting.

Answer: (B)

A laceration is a tear or cut in tissue. When a stoma is described as lacerated, it means the stoma tissue has been torn or damaged, usually from trauma or rough handling during a pouch change, contact with a sharp edge, or an ill-fitting appliance pressing on the tissue. This is different from inflammation, which would present with redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness but not a tear. It isn’t about obstruction, where output is blocked, or retraction, where the stoma pulls back into the abdomen. A torn edge can bleed and appear irregular, and it warrants careful assessment and gentle care to prevent further injury and infection. Use a protective barrier, ensure the appliance fits well without applying pressure to the stoma, and seek medical evaluation if bleeding is heavy, the tissue looks severely damaged, or signs of infection appear.