Stoma Retraction - Peer Advice

Stoma retraction can be a challenging and often distressing issue for individuals with ostomies, impacting both their physical comfort and quality of life. Drawing upon the collective wisdom of the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, a community-driven platform, this article aims to provide practical and peer-reviewed advice for those facing this issue. The suggestions range from using specialized ostomy bags and belts to enhance the fit and function of the stoma, to considering surgical interventions for more severe cases. Additionally, the importance of consulting with healthcare professionals like colorectal surgeons and stoma nurses is emphasized, as they can offer personalized advice and treatment options. This compilation of advice also touches on the role of diet, stoma care techniques, and skin protection methods in managing stoma retraction. The insights provided here are gleaned from real experiences and discussions, aiming to support, inform, and empower individuals dealing with stoma retraction.

Based on the discussions from the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, here is the advice on stoma retraction:

1. Use convex bags to help push the area around the stoma in and supplement the convexity by adding a SAR aloo ring to the wafer around the hole.
2. Consider using a stoma belt to help pull the wafer onto the abdomen.
3. Consult a colorectal surgeon for specialized advice and potential revision of the ileostomy.
4. Explore the option of seeing a colon specialist to discuss potential surgical adjustments or relocation of the stoma.
5. Seek guidance from the surgeon to understand the cause of the retraction and potential solutions.
6. Consider revising the ileostomy with the help of a colorectal surgeon for easier management.
7. Some users suggest using a convex flange to prevent stoma retraction, especially when experiencing pancaking at the top of the stoma.
8. It's important to differentiate between normal stoma movement and actual retraction, which can affect wear time and cause discomfort.
9. Scarring from previous surgeries can lead to tissue tightening and stoma retraction.
10. Stoma retraction can be influenced by factors such as bowel disease, hernia at the stoma, and the constant pull of the bowel.
11. Some users have had success with stoma refashioning and using paste to bring the stoma back together, while others have faced challenges finding effective solutions.
12. It's important to consult with healthcare professionals and consider surgery if necessary, especially if the stoma retraction causes pain and bleeding.
13. Some users have found that certain foods, like tomatoes, can influence stoma retraction, and avoiding such foods has helped prevent retraction.
14. Consider using convex wafers or discussing a revision with a surgeon if the current approach is not working.
15. Stoma irrigation can be effective and efficient for managing a stoma, but it's important to consult with a stoma expert like a nurse to determine if it's suitable for you.
16. Ensure that you qualify for stoma irrigation by having some descending colon left and it must be healthy, and then search for instructional videos on colostomy irrigation on YouTube.
17. Consider using Cavilon advanced skin protection ampule with a sponge applicator to protect irritated skin and help the wafer and bag stick well.
18. Consider using stoma powders to protect the skin until it heals.
19. Try using Medline Marathon to help the bag stick to the skin.
20. Consider using Anacept wound gel to soothe irritated skin before applying the barrier wipe and pouch.
21. Use water to clean around the stoma, then apply a skin barrier perspective and pouch directly to the skin.

If you have further questions, consider posting your question in the discussion forum of MeetAnOstoMate.org for more insights and advice.

Check out these links for more information:

• Stoma Retraction: Seeking Advice (November 20, 2022)
• Stoma retraction surgery: Seeking advice! (October 04, 2011)
• Stoma Retraction: Seeking Advice (February 04, 2023)
• Stoma retraction causing leaks - seeking advice (January 03, 2011)
• Stoma retraction and size changes: Any advice? (May 27, 2014)
• Recovering from Stoma Reform: Seeking Advice (March 17, 2011)
• Ileostomy Retraction: Seeking Advice (December 03, 2022)
• Need advice on stoma irrigation for retracted stoma (April 09, 2023)
• Nervous about surgery, need advice (April 01, 2011)
• Stoma retraction and changing output - need advice! (January 23, 2013)