Question: How can I treat a retracted stoma?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some best practices for managing and treating a retracted stoma:
1. Consultation with Healthcare Professionals:
- Consider consulting with a colorectal surgeon or stoma nurse about the possibility of a stoma revision surgery, especially if the retraction causes significant leakage or skin irritation.
- Seek opinions from different surgeons if necessary, and ensure that any surgical intervention is carefully considered based on the individual's health and circumstances.
2. Use of Convex Products:
- Utilize convex wafers or bags to help push the stoma outwards, which can improve the fit and reduce leakage.
- Experiment with different types of barrier rings and wafers, including moldable barriers that can adapt better to the stoma's shape.
3. Skin Protection and Adhesion:
- Use liquid skin protectants like Marathon or 3M Advanced Skin Protectant to protect the skin and improve adhesion.
- Consider using stoma powders and barrier wipes to protect the skin and enhance the seal.
4. Routine and Care Techniques:
- Warm the wafer before application to improve adhesion, and regularly press around the wafer during application to form a better seal.
- Adjust the frequency of appliance changes based on personal comfort and skin condition.
5. Additional Supportive Measures:
- Consider using an ostomy belt to ensure a closer fit to the skin and prevent leaks.
- Explore ostomy irrigation as a potential method to manage output and extend the time between appliance changes.
6. Product Experimentation:
- Request samples from ostomy product manufacturers to test different products without committing to bulk purchases initially.
- Keep exploring various product options and techniques until finding a combination that offers both comfort and reliability.
7. Community Support:
- Engage with ostomy forums and support groups to gain insights and advice from individuals with similar experiences.
Check out these links for more information:
- Caring for a Retracted Stoma with Leakage Issues (July 09, 2024)
- Stoma Retraction - Seeking Advice (February 04, 2023)
- Advice for Leaking Retracted Stoma? (June 27, 2018)
- Stoma Retraction - Seeking Advice (November 20, 2022)
- Help with Retracted Stoma and Wafer Issues (March 23, 2025)
- Skin Protection Advice for Retracted Colostomy (February 21, 2025)
- Stoma retraction surgery - Seeking advice! (October 04, 2011)
- Coping with a Retracted Stoma: Seeking Advice and Tips (October 27, 2024)
- Need help with retracted stoma - wafers not working (May 28, 2019)
- Retracted Stoma - Normal or Cause for Concern? (April 26, 2014)
