-ostomy and -otomy
An -otomy cuts into something; an -ostomy makes a lasting opening.
What it means
Two endings that look almost identical and mean different things.
-otomy — cutting into something. A laparotomy is opening the abdomen; a craniotomy is opening the skull. The cut is closed again at the end.
-ostomy — creating an opening that stays. A colostomy brings the colon to the surface of the abdomen; a tracheostomy creates an opening into the windpipe.
One letter changes it from a route in to a lasting change, which is worth reading carefully on a consent form.
In practice
On consent forms, operation notes and surgical letters.
"Stoma" is the opening itself, and may be temporary or permanent — another thing worth clarifying explicitly.
Why it matters
If a stoma is being discussed, ask whether it is intended to be temporary or permanent, and if temporary, roughly when reversal would be considered.
Ask to meet a stoma nurse before the operation if you can. That conversation makes a substantial difference and is often available.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Mohammad Zubair Khan, GMC 7563469
Last reviewed
August 30, 2026