This topic is about someone who has been dealing with persistent leaks and severe skin damage around their ileostomy. They are looking for an appliance that will stay on without causing further injury. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others who have faced similar challenges:
- **General Troubleshooting & Assessment**
- Check the stoma and surrounding skin in both sitting and standing positions. If you notice any creases or dimples, fill them with a moldable ring, strip paste, or Eakin seal, and consider using a convex wafer with a belt.
- Ensure the flange opening matches the current size of the stoma. Cut it while sitting or standing, and try making small slits (like a star-burst) to allow the wafer to expand with movement.
- If the raw skin mirrors the outline of the wafer or tape, it might be contact dermatitis. Consider switching to a different brand.
- **Products That May Help**
1. **Convex Systems & Fillers**
- ConvaTec offers options like the SUR-FIT Natura convex wafer and pouch, and Eakin Cohesive Seals.
- Hollister has convex wafers with Adapt Rings.
- Coloplast provides convex wafers and alcohol-free strip paste.
- Nu-Hope offers a Non-Adhesive Ostomy System and absorptive sachets.
- Consider using a Dermacol flexible collar to keep the wafer edge sealed.
2. **Two-Piece or Adhesive-Less Options**
- ConvaTec and Coloplast have two-piece sets that offer a stickier, longer-wear flange.
- VPI / Nu-Hope has an adhesive-less silicone-ring system that might help with protruding stomas.
3. **Skin Protection & Healing**
- Use 3M Cavilon "No Sting" Barrier Film or Smith & Nephew No-Sting Skin Prep.
- Calamine lotion can be applied and allowed to dry before placing the wafer.
- Maalox on cotton can help stop weeping and itching.
- DuoDERM or Tegaderm dressings can be used for weepy ulcers.
4. **Belts & Mechanical Support**
- Use the manufacturer's ostomy belt or a DIY wide elastic sports belt. It should be snug but not so tight that it buckles the flange.
5. **High-Output / Liquid Control**
- Discuss medications like Imodium or Lomotil with your doctor.
- Absorptive sachets like Parthenon Par-Sorb can help turn liquid output into a more manageable consistency.
- Foods like bananas, creamy peanut butter, and applesauce might help.
6. **Removing & Cleaning**
- Avoid alcohol-based adhesive removers if possible. Use warm water or mild soap instead.
- If paste is needed, use minimal amounts and let it ventilate before applying the wafer.
7. **Other Practical Tips**
- Hold your hand over the applied wafer for a minute or two to help it mold and adhere better.
- Carry spare appliances and accessories when you're away from home.
For more information or to order samples, you can contact ConvaTec or Coloplast through their helplines. Websites like Parthenon and Edgepark also offer products that might be helpful. Many people have found significant improvement by switching to a convex wafer with a belt and using products like Eakin or Adapt rings to seal creases, while also protecting and healing the skin.
See full discusison