<human>: What is the difference between a stoma and a colostomy?
<bot>: A stoma is an artificial opening in the body used to bypass the natural functions of the digestive system. It is usually created surgically and is used to divert fecal matter from the colon or rectum, so that it can be removed by a medical professional. A colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening from the colon or rectum directly to the outside of the body. The end of the colon or rectum is brought through this hole, creating an external stoma.