This topic is all about finding the perfect ostomy pouching system, especially when dealing with a challenging stoma. The originator has tried various brands and shared their experiences, hoping to find the "just-right" setup. Here are some insights and advice gathered from their journey and the community's input:
- Coloplast SenSura Mio: The look and feel are appreciated, but the bulky filter and inflexible wafer are drawbacks. The belt hooks are too small, and the filters are not used.
- Hollister: The bag texture and wafer design are liked, but the adhesive can pull unevenly and irritate the skin.
- Nu-Hope & Marlen: Known for creativity and wide belts for complex stomas, but the wafers are considered flimsy and lack long-wear hydrocolloid. The two-piece options are not strong.
- Convatec: Currently favored for its two-piece, no-filter, moldable wafer. The only issue is the odor-retaining "accordion" flange on some models. Another surgery might allow a confident return to Convatec.
Additional questions and information include:
- Interest in seeing photos of a member's homemade silicone devices.
- Inquiry about which specific Convatec line another member uses.
- Past difficulty with irrigation but considering trying again.
- Seeking updates on another member's upcoming stoma revision surgery.
Advice and insights from the community:
1. General Fit Strategy
- There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Keep trying different options until you find what almost works, then adjust or combine parts.
- Custom devices, like silicone-rubber artificial skin, can address unique issues but may require skill or external help to create.
2. Convatec Tips
- The two-piece Sur-Fit Natura with moldable wafers can last 10–18 days for some users, with a preference for the white fabric barrier for comfort.
- Specific product numbers are shared for a complete Convatec system.
- Only snap-ring versions can be "burped" cleanly; adhesive coupling styles cannot.
- Closed-end mini pouches (7") are helpful for shorter users and reduce the need for public emptying. Carry zipper bags for discreet disposal.
3. Coloplast SenSura Mio Observations
- The "click" ring is disliked by many users for being hard to fasten and impossible to emergency-burp without mess.
- Filters clog quickly for colostomates, and adhesive coupling cannot be burped without leakage.
4. Hollister Suggestions
- Skin irritation often comes from the edge tape, not the adhesive. Switching to tape-free models can help.
- The Hollister 1-piece 88400 has a soft cloth backing, integrated filter, Velcro drainable end, and makes it easy to see the output level.
- To prevent rash, cleanse with warm water and mild shampoo, then use 3M Cavilon spray barrier before applying the pouch.
- Hollister 2-piece wearers appreciate closed-end mini bags for mobility, with some wearing the same wafer for up to 10 days without issues.
5. Nu-Hope / Marlen Notes
- Good for special-shape stomas, with wide elastic belts providing extra security during post-revision healing.
- Materials are light and breathable but offer only 1–3 days’ wear, making them best for interim or niche solutions.
6. Irrigation Experiences
- Successful irrigators report minimal daily output and increased freedom, preferring closed-end caps/pouches afterward.
- Burping needs decrease for 1–2 days while the pouch filter functions; covering the filter later prevents backflow.
- For those who felt weak or saw little return, retrying after healing or with guidance may improve results.
7. Miscellaneous Practical Ideas
- Drawing fun designs on plain pouches can make up for the lack of attractive colors.
- Users balance landfill impact by recycling elsewhere, noting that baby diapers produce far more bulk.
- Quiet-material pouches are a shared wish, with encouragement for manufacturers to combine the best features across brands.
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