Mental Health Interventions to Improve Body Image Outcomes for Ostomates: A Systematic Review

Ostomy surgery is a life-saving procedure extending an individual's life span. However, the emotional impact can negatively influence body image and quality of life. This systematic review investigated the effectiveness of mental health interventions provided pre and/or post-operative to ostomates. Two reviewers independently screened 2,759 titles and abstracts and 377 full-text studies. Twelve studies met the criteria for inclusion. The findings indicate that ostomates of all ages and genders benefit from mental health interventions to improve function, body image, and psychological outcomes. Healthcare practitioners should incorporate body image management into rehabilitation to improve ostomates' quality of life.