Final answer:
Colostomies for a gunshot wound are usually temporary, intended to allow healing of the intestines, but may become permanent depending on the extent of the injury and potential recovery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Colostomies performed for a gunshot wound are usually temporary. When an individual suffers a gunshot wound that damages the intestines, surgeons may perform a colostomy which involves creating an opening in the abdominal wall to allow stool to pass into a bag. This is typically done to give the injured intestines time to heal. Whenever possible, surgeons aim to reverse the colostomy and restore normal bowel function after the healing process is complete. In cases where the intestines cannot be repaired to function normally, or if a new fecal pouch cannot be created from the small intestine to be sutured to the anus, the alternative could be an ileostomy. An ileostomy involves bringing the distal ileum through the abdominal wall to collect the watery chyme in an adhesive appliance. The decision between temporary or permanent stoma depends on the extent and location of the injury as well as the potential for recovery and healing of the bowel.