Two years ago, I had a colostomy and my stoma was formed. It was initially recessed and measured about 25mm in length. The ostomy nurse at the hospital set me up with a Hollister convex two-piece. The cut-to-fit barrier fits up to 1-1/2". Slowly, the stoma began to grow, and I learned to measure and cut to fit with every change and have had great success. No leaks, diet adjusted so output is pretty well formed and controllable, and the convexity has allowed room for the growing stoma to have no problem in emptying into the pouch.
This past year, the stoma has grown more quickly to the point I have reached the edges of the 1-1/2" cut-to-fit and have now gone to the next size Hollister convex barrier, which is 2-1/4". This may be normal or acceptable, but I'd like some feedback from experienced users on the sudden growth and at what point I should be alarmed. This first 2-1/4" barrier I have applied, I cut right at the 1-1/2" mark.
Not only has it grown in opening size but in the amount it is protruding, which is proportional. I have thought about ditching the convex barrier in favor of a flat style, but it isn't something that seems to work for my protruding stoma as the face of the bag on the flat system smashes tightly atop the stoma, and I'm hesitant to go through the whole pancaking, smearing mess that has the potential to produce.
So, what do you think? Should I feel concerned about the growth spurt?
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Hollister
Selecting the right ostomy accessories is important to ensure a good seal and skin protection.
Use our decision guide to help you choose the right accessories for you.
Use our decision guide to help you choose the right accessories for you.
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Hollister
In addition to your pouching system, you may require the use of an ostomy accessory to enhance the performance of your system.
Learn more about ostomy accessories, and when to use them.
Learn more about ostomy accessories, and when to use them.