This topic is about finding effective ways to prevent leakage around an oblong ileostomy stoma using barrier or wax rings. The person sharing their experience has a healing ileostomy with some challenges, such as leakage and open stitch sites. They are looking for advice on how to better manage their situation. Here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. Consider using a two-piece appliance. This allows you to position the wafer accurately before attaching the pouch, which can help with alignment and reduce leaks.

2. Try this skin prep sequence:
- Apply 3M Cavilon Barrier Film (either as a wipe or spray) and let it dry completely.
- Place an Eakin Seal or another barrier ring snugly against the stoma without pressing too hard. Then, apply the wafer and press all around to secure it.

3. Warm the barrier ring before use. You can do this by placing it under your arm, between your thighs, or using a hair dryer on one side. This makes the ring more pliable and helps it adhere better without sticking to your fingers.

4. For fitting a ring around an irregular or oblong stoma:
- Keep the ring’s thin plastic covers on while warming it.
- Cut through one side of the ring with scissors.
- Wearing nitrile gloves, gently squeeze and stretch the ring along its length.
- Start at the bottom of the stoma and wrap the ring around, letting the ends meet or overlap at the top.
- Use light finger pressure to seat it. You can cut the wafer hole slightly larger and let it rest on the ring for the main seal.

5. Consider alternate product suggestions:
- Salts Healthcare rings, either standard or soft-collar “ring seals” (e.g., size DC29), are available as samples by phone. Users often fold or trim excess to match their stoma and report longer wear times.
- Use an empty tape-roll spool as a “steam-roller” over the backing paper to press the Salts ring down evenly. Keep the backing between the spool and ring to prevent the ring from being pulled off.

6. Try a convex wafer. Many people find that convexity helps reduce leakage, especially if the stoma retracts or if output undermines the seal.