What Is Ostomy Pancaking?

Ostomy pancaking is a term used to describe a situation where the output from an ostomy bag adheres to the stoma, creating a vacuum seal. This causes the bag's walls to collapse inward, forming a pancake-like shape that can interfere with the normal functioning of the ostomy bag.

Ostomy pancaking can cause a number of problems for people with ostomies. It can make it difficult to empty the bag, lead to leaks, and cause skin irritation around the stoma. To prevent pancaking, many ostomy bags feature specialized filters that allow air to flow into the bag and prevent a vacuum from forming. Additionally, choosing the right type of ostomy bag and using appropriate techniques for changing and emptying the bag can help reduce the risk of pancaking. If you are experiencing ostomy pancaking, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider or an ostomy care specialist to determine the best course of action.

There are several things you can do to prevent ostomy pancaking, including:

1. Use an ostomy pouch with a built-in air filter: Many ostomy pouches come with built-in air filters that allow air to circulate within the pouch and prevent the formation of a vacuum. Check with your healthcare provider or an ostomy care specialist to find the right pouch for your needs.

4. Use an adhesive release spray: Spraying the inside of the ostomy pouch with a special adhesive release spray can prevent the contents from sticking to the pouch walls and creating a vacuum seal.

3. Modify your diet: Certain foods, such as bananas, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes, can thicken the output of the stoma, making it more likely to pancake. Speak with a registered dietitian to find the right diet for your specific needs.

4. Use proper pouching technique: Proper pouching technique is essential to preventing pancaking. Make sure you are emptying the pouch regularly, using the appropriate amount of lubrication, and ensuring a secure seal.

5. Try different pouching supplies: If you are experiencing persistent pancaking, it may be time to try a different type of ostomy pouch or accessory. A healthcare provider or ostomy care specialist can help you find the right supplies for your needs.

Based on discussions from the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, here is a summary of the advice and insights provided for managing ostomy pancaking:

1. Ensure the stoma sticks out sufficiently, and if it's below skin level, consider discussing with a doctor about having it redone to stick out more.
2. Try blowing into the bag before putting it on to prevent pancaking.
3. Use baby oil to help waste slide down and avoid sticking and pancaking near the stoma.
4. Leave air in the bag after each time you empty it to prevent pancaking.
5. Consider using a barrier ring to protect the skin around the stoma and block waste.
6. Use a convex wafer with a flat barrier ring along with a protective sheet film to address pancaking issues.
7. Consider using a belt with a hole for the bag to go through to push the abdomen down around the appliance and keep the stoma out.
8. Use a specific type of convex flange and protective sheet to prevent irritation from output trickling under the protective sheet.
9. Consider using Na'scent deodorizing liquid to address output issues.
10. Consider keeping the stoma if there are concerns about reversal due to age, recovery time, and potential success rates.
11. Using a pouch with a convex flange to apply more pressure around the stoma and prevent stool from getting underneath.
12. Ensure the skin around the stoma is dry and consider warming the flange with a blow dryer for better sealing.
13. Consider using a barrier ring if using a convex flange doesn't resolve the issue.
14. Consider irrigation as a potential solution, especially for colostomy patients, and consult with a stoma therapist about this technique.
15. Insert odor remover or a rolled-up sheet of toilet paper into the pouch to create an air pocket and prevent pancaking.
16. Consider wearing loose clothing to avoid pressure on the pouch.
17. Cover the filter airhole with more than one dot or tape to prevent pancaking.
18. Seek advice from a stoma nurse or therapist to address the specific issues and find a suitable solution.
19. Stay calm and carry on, as experience is a great teacher in handling ostomy emergencies.
20. Keep trying different methods and products to find what works best for individual needs.

If you have further questions or need personalized advice, consider posting your question in the discussion forum of MeetAnOstoMate.org for more insights from the ostomy community.

Check out these links for more information:

• Pancaking issues with ileostomy - seeking advice (July 26, 2022)
• Pancaking and Blowouts: Need Advice! (April 15, 2022)
• Need help with managing my colostomy - work, pancaking, pain, and blockages (May 18, 2014)
• Tips for Pancaking and Pasty Output with Colostomy? (August 28, 2017)
• Ileostomy retraction: Tips for fitting flange with pancaking issues (August 26, 2022)
• Struggling with Pancake-ing: Need Help! (September 22, 2020)
• Seeking Advice for New Colostomy: Diet, Products, and Irrigation Tips Needed (January 09, 2011)
• Seeking advice for ileostomy pancaking issues (August 31, 2022)
• Help! Constant Panic with Products (September 03, 2019)
• Tips to Prevent Pancaking & Bella Band's Impact? (August 30, 2011)