This topic is about finding the best way to manage ostomy care with one hand, especially after thumb surgery. The person will need to use a pouching system that can be easily handled with one hand for about 90 days. They currently use roll-up, Velcro-closure drainable bags but are thinking about switching to single-use, closed-end pouches during their recovery. They have a few questions about this transition:

1. What size closed pouches work best?
2. How many times per day do users usually change them?
3. How many pouches are used in a typical week?

They also want to know how many extra bags to order in case their output increases. Here are some helpful insights and advice:

- Two-piece, closed-end disposable systems are often the easiest to manage with one hand. You simply snap off the used pouch and snap on a new one.

- For size and wear position:
- One user finds a 7-inch closed pouch worn horizontally under a Stealth Belt to be adequate and less bulky.
- Most brands offer a "regular" closed-pouch size, which is slightly smaller than standard roll-up drainables but holds a similar volume. Tiny "mini" pouches are available but are usually too small for regular use.

- For frequency and quantities:
- A typical colostomy user might use 1 closed pouch per day, changing it after the morning's heavier output.
- Another colostomy user reports using 2 closed pouches per day.
- An ileostomy user might need about 3 closed pouches per day due to continuous liquid output.
- A general rule is to estimate how often you currently empty a drainable pouch each day and expect to replace a closed pouch that often, adding extras for higher-output days.

- For baseplate wear time:
- With a two-piece system, the adhesive barrier (base plate) can often stay on for 7–14 days, so only the pouch needs to be changed with one hand.

- Practice beforehand:
- Try changing and draining with just one hand now to see if you can still manage your current drainable system. Some users found they could, although wiping the Velcro tail neatly was challenging.
- Experiment with using countertops, sinks, or other surfaces to help peel and reseal with limited fingers.

- Output type matters:
- Colostomy (firmer output) usually allows for once-daily pouch changes.
- Ileostomy (liquid output) may require multiple changes. Adding a bit of tissue or an absorptive product inside the pouch can help keep liquid from pooling around the stoma and undermining the wafer.

- Product and brand mentions:
- Hollister closed beige pouches are a popular choice.
- A Stealth Belt can be used for horizontal wear and support.