Struggling with Diverticulitis and Colostomy Complications

Hey. I have had to have 2 emergency surgeries so far because of diverticulitis, and during my second surgery they gave me a temporary colostomy. They placed the soma right in the upper center of my stomach. I have been having a terrible time having bags stick to it. My skin around it is so irritated its almost unbearable. Today I was changing my bag and I used a new skin prep and OMG my skin is on fire, and I can not get the skin barrier off. Can anyone help me with this? Also has anyone had the same issue? Oh one more thing I am supposed to have the reversal surgery soon and my doctor is saying he is going to have to take my entire colon. What does that mean?? Please Help!!

I have urostomy not a colostomy, so I might be able to help you with first part. When I change mine I use adhesive remover to remove the flange, skin prep and any residue from ekan ring. I use two packets of adhesive remover. I then wash the skin around my stoma and make sure the skin is dry when I'm done. Then I put skin prep on, then powder, then skin prep again. Then I attach ekan ring, flange & bag. I hope this helps.

Hello Checher. Sorry to hear that you have problems with your bags. It sounds as if you need to experiment with different types until you find the one that will not irritate your skin. Medical adhesive remover will be the answer to getting bags off without pain and if you are not using either the spray or wipes, then this may be a reason for your soreness.

As for the removal of the entire colon. This needs to be clarified with you surgeon but it sounds as if he/ she has in mind for you to have an ileostomy rather than a reversal. It is as well to be prepared for whatever they are going to do as it can be quite a shock if you think one thing is going to happen and wake up with something else.

Best wishes

Bill 

Checher,

you are getting the burning sensation because your skin around your stoma is raw, probably from all the changing. First, when removing the adhesive, make sure to use an adhesive remover.  Then wash thoroughly with a soap that is  not perfumed. I would suggest something like ivory soap. Then use  skin prep together with karaya powder. Both of these will help considerably. 

 As for your second point involving your potential resection, it sounds confusing. I agree totally with Bill's comments that it sounds more likely that you are going to get an ileostomy in view the of the fact that your surgeon said he's removing your colon. again, as Bill suggested, make sure you check this out with your surgeon

Cheche,

While it IS possible to have your entire colon removed, a j pouch formed, the reversal completed and the stoma gone, it is not usually done in one surgery.  If your colon is removed entirely usually you have an illeostomy. Whether it is temporary or ends up being permanent will depend on the results of the surgery to remove the colon and the sphincter muscle control results afterwards as well as how much small intestine is available to work with to form the j pouch.  If your surgeon is able to perform the entire operation in one shot you are lucky because the less time in surgery the better for your health.  Be sure your surgeon is giving you ALL the facts and possibilities, as like Bill said, surprises are NOT fun.  As for the skin issues, I use anacept gel from anacapa technologis on the skin around the stoma.  It is wound gel.  I apply it after showering to clean dry skin and rub it in. (it also comes in a spray)  After drying (or wiping off any excess with a gauze pad) I use a barrier WIPE to make the skin more adherent to the pouch.  After fanning it dry I apply the sen sura mio one piece drainable pouch. I do NOT use the extra seal (like an eakin or a slims or a perfect choice) I have found that less is more and generally works best for me, but EVERYONE is different, and different systems meet different needs.  You can request samples from EVERY supplier, and this will help you determine what works best for you.  Good luck with your upcoming surgery.  Keep us informed.

Peace

Stories of Living Life to the Fullest from Ostomy Advocates I Hollister