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Sep 01, 2010

How Often Should You Change a 2-Piece Flange?

This topic is about finding the right wear-time for a 2-piece flange system, specifically for someone using a Sensura Click 2-piece system with Cohesive Slims. The person is experiencing the wafer "melting" underneath, leading to daily changes to prevent skin irritation. They are concerned about whether they are changing too often or if their output is unusually "acidic." They also worry about leaks if the appliance is left on for more than two days and are seeking advice to gain more confidence.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Normal wear-time can vary greatly:
- Many people change their system twice a week, every 3-4 days.
- Some can extend wear-time to 7-10 days, and a few even reach 2-3 weeks.
- Frequent changes can worsen skin irritation.
- In the U.S., insurance often covers only 20 wafers per month, affecting how often changes can be made.

2. Digestive enzymes, not "acid," can dissolve adhesive:
- If wafers or seals melt quickly, consider trying different materials or brands.
- Convatec Eakin Seals are noted for being enzyme-resistant.
- Some find Hollister products effective, while others experience quick breakdowns—trial and error is key.

3. Techniques to extend wear-time:
- Apply a complete ring of Hollister Adapt Paste around the stoma, hold for a minute, then apply the wafer for 3-4 days of wear.
- Use Eakin Seals or Hollister Adapt Rings under a convex or flat wafer to prevent edge leaks.
- Warm rings or wafers with a hair-dryer on low heat for about 20 seconds before application for better adhesion.
- Avoid skin-prep wipes; instead, clean with adhesive remover wipes and lotion-free, fragrance-free soap.

4. Product combinations that have worked for others:
- A combination of Hollister Floating Flange wafer, Adapt Paste, and Hollister New Image Bag has lasted 2-3 weeks, even with daily ocean swimming.
- Hollister Adapt Rings with a convex wafer consistently last 7 days.
- Convatec Sur-Flex 2-piece can last 3-10 days, and up to 2½ weeks in emergencies with duct tape and spray adhesive.

5. Fitting tips to prevent leaks and skin damage:
- Switch to convex wafers if the stoma is below skin level; this change has extended wear-time from 24 hours to a full week for some.
- Create a simple sizing tool to press Adapt/Eakin rings evenly to the stoma's exact diameter, which can prevent under-seal seepage and heal sore skin.

6. Management habits that help:
- Empty the pouch before it becomes heavy to prevent it from popping off.
- Heat, heavy perspiration, and high-output ileostomy days can shorten wear-time, so plan to change sooner in these conditions.
- Schedule routine changes every 3 days to avoid unexpected issues, then adjust as confidence and wear-time improve.

7. Swimming and water exposure experiences vary:
- Some wafers may loosen within hours, while others, like the Hollister Floating Flange with Adapt Paste, can last a week or more in saltwater. Test cautiously to see what works best for you.
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