Two urostomies from each kidney

Hi Goldens parent 

Can I just ask are you talking about nephrostomies rather than urostomies? A urostomy is formed when you have your bladder removed and comes out through the abdomen, whereas nephrostomies are tubes which go in to the kidneys via your back. 

I’ve not ever heard of anyone having 2 urostomies, because a urostomy is a straightforward alternative to having no bladder,  but certainly people can have two nephrostomies, one from each kidney. It would be useful if you could clarify so that people can respond with their experiences as the two are very different things. I only have experience with a urostomy, so unfortunately cannot help with anything related to kidneys.

Sarah xx

I cannot elaborate I’m afraid. My understanding was two bags. And I assumed the bags would be located at the front. We are in France. The operation will take 5 hours so not a temporary fix. We meet a stoma nurse late February quite close to the operation so wanted to be appraised well beforehand. It’s difficult to get answers here. My husband has written a letter to the Urologist with a list of questions unsure if he’ll get a reply. 
As you say researching on Internet revealed nothing. Thnx so much for responding. 

Hi Goldens parent 

It must be difficult living in France to get a full understanding of what’s happening, but it’s going to be really important to be comfortable that you know what is planned. Is the language an issue in terms of understanding? If so, is there any translator help available? My apologies for suggesting this might be the case if it’s not. 

It sounds like a lengthy operation for your husband. Two bags might seem to indicate nephrostomies, but these come from the back from the kidneys via tubing into bags to collect urine. These bags are then normally attached to the legs.

Bags at the front suggest 2 different types of stoma-for example I have 2 bags at the front because I have a urostomy after having my bladder removed, and a colostomy after having my colon removed. The stomas are formed by bringing parts of the intestinal system through the abdomen.

As you haven’t mentioned bladder removal or colon removal, then it seems like neither of these is happening, and the most likely explanation is two nephrostomies direct from the kidneys. I was confused when your post title mentioned urostomies but your actual post described something potentially different to that. 

Are you able to have contact with the stoma nurse sooner than the end of February since that is close to the operation date? It would I think be very helpful for yourself and your husband to know much more about what is planned well in advance.  

Sarah xx