Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Sponsored by Hollister
Login   |  
Forgot password?
 
Forum
Videos
Reviews
About Us
Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Where Everybody Understands You
41,436 members
Sep 20, 2021

Advice on Reducing Stoma Size?

This topic is about planning surgery to reduce the size of an oversized stoma, which is currently about 70 mm by 65 mm. The person involved is preparing for surgery and is looking for advice and insights on how to proceed. Here are some helpful points to consider:

1. **Questions for the Surgical Team**
- Ask why the stoma has enlarged. Is it due to changes in the bowel wall or a hernia?
- Inquire about the number of similar procedures the surgeon has performed and any complications that arose.
- Discuss whether bowel length will be affected and how much might be removed.
- Find out how the abdominal wall defect will be closed and what the plan is for preventing hernias, such as using mesh or a support belt.
- Clarify any expected recovery restrictions, like limitations on abdominal exercises.

2. **Understanding the Surgical Approach**
- A stoma of this size typically requires more than just tightening. The usual procedure involves closing the old site, removing a section of the bowel, and creating a new stoma, often on the opposite side of the abdomen.
- The new stoma should be positioned away from scar tissue to ensure proper appliance adhesion.
- The goal after revision is usually a stoma about 25 mm in diameter.

3. **Seeking Multiple Opinions**
- It's wise to consult with at least two independent surgeons to compare techniques and ensure confidence in the chosen approach.

4. **Hernia Awareness and Prevention**
- Oversized stomas and their revisions can increase the risk of hernias. Discuss the use of support garments or belts and establish long-term lifting limits.
- Avoid heavy lifting; some people recommend keeping loads under 10 pounds.

5. **Managing the Stoma Before Surgery**
- Since the stoma is flush with the skin, it's crucial to position the pouch carefully to prevent leaks and skin irritation until the surgery takes place.

6. **Resources and Personal Experiences**
- Look for articles and resources that discuss stoma size changes, such as the OakMed article on why stomas might get bigger, which can provide additional insights.

By considering these points, the person can better prepare for their upcoming surgery and manage their stoma in the meantime.
See full discusison
Gray Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
MeetAnOstoMate.org

MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,436 members.

“Every morning with my coffee, I read here and feel wrapped in warmth - I hardly post, but it still feels like family.”

“Our oncologist literally wrote down the link; they said more patients need this website.”

“This place pulled me out of the dark. I went from lurking to living again.”

“At 3am, someone’s awake somewhere in the world. I’m never alone here.”

Join Free

Popular Topics

New member
When to Consider Stoma Hernia Repair?
Say hello to my little friend…
Viva Las Vegas
Hair Loss After Proctocolectomy Surgery
New to Colostomy: Can I Eat Popcorn or Mango?
Best Ostomy Support Belts for New Users
Short hair or long hair
TIGER SNAKE ENCOUNTER
New to this site

New Topics

The song remains the same?
Medication Absorption Tips for Ileostomy Patients
JUST CALL ME HENRYM
Early Christmas Giggle #2
Flying with a Spinal Cord Injury and Ileostomy: Tips Needed
Dealing with Body Odor: Tips and Solutions
USP - WAIT, WHAT !!!
B. Withers - Be Kind
Life is definitely lifin 😄
Hi
About us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Ostomy Blogs | Ostomy Q&A | Guides | Contact Us
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and Google Privacy Policy and Google Terms of Service apply.
Copyright (c) MeetAnOstoMate.org All Rights Reserved
Create Account
Login
↑