This topic is about preparing for life with an ostomy when you're facing surgery on your left hand, specifically LRTI surgery. The challenge is managing your ostomy care with only one hand, which can be tricky. Here's how one person planned for this situation and some helpful advice from others who have been there:

- Before the surgery, the person decided to switch from their usual ostomy appliance to closed-end pouches. This change was necessary because managing a drainable bag with one hand would be difficult.

- They reached out to their former hospital ostomy nurse, who was incredibly helpful. The nurse calculated how many closed pouches would be needed for the recovery period and identified the exact product code. They also added extra supplies for emergencies.

- This information was then sent to their VA provider to place the order. The person emphasized how invaluable ostomy nurses are for any stoma-related needs and expressed gratitude for the advice received from others in the community.

- The person has a flat stoma that requires a convex wafer and prefers a two-piece system because it allows them to visually center the pouch, which they find difficult with a one-piece system.

- They asked another member who is also trying out closed systems to share their experiences with one-piece versus two-piece closed pouches.

Here are some additional insights and advice from the community:

1. Ostomy nurses, also known as WOC nurses, are known for providing excellent and empathetic support. They often share personal contact information and work together across hospitals to solve problems.

2. If you're facing hand surgery, lymphedema, or other limitations, consider switching to closed-end pouches. This can help avoid the dexterity required for emptying drainable bags.

3. When a convex wafer is needed, such as with a flat stoma, a two-piece closed system can be beneficial. It allows you to see and accurately center the pouch on the wafer, which might be easier than using a one-piece system during one-handed application.

4. It's wise to have extra supplies beyond what you think you'll need. This can cover unforeseen leaks or seal failures, especially when your hand function is limited.