The topic at hand is about a medical scenario depicted in an episode of NBC’s “Chicago Med,” where doctors used sugar to treat a prolapsed stoma. This has sparked curiosity about the accuracy of this method and how prolapsed stomas are generally managed. Here are some insights and advice on the matter:

1. The technique shown, known as "sugar and reduce," is indeed a real method used in medical settings. It involves sprinkling granulated sugar on the swollen stoma and gently pressing it to reduce the prolapse.

2. The sugar works by drawing water out of the bowel tissue through osmosis, which helps reduce the swelling and allows the intestine to retract to its normal position.

3. This method is typically a temporary solution. Its effectiveness can vary depending on the severity and cause of the prolapse. In some cases, if the swelling returns or the prolapse is significant, surgery might be necessary.

4. Sometimes, cold therapy, such as an ice pack, is used alongside sugar to enhance the shrinking effect by causing blood vessels to constrict.

5. Research, including studies from the U.S. National Institutes of Health, supports the use of sugar for reducing stoma swelling. The same principle explains why consuming sugar can lead to increased water loss and dehydration in the intestines.

6. Personal experiences vary: some people have avoided surgery thanks to the sugar method, while others eventually required surgical intervention. Prolapses have been described as ranging from 1 inch to as much as 5–6 inches, sometimes filling the entire pouch.

7. It's important to note that a prolapsed stoma is not just a swollen stoma; it involves extra bowel length protruding through the stoma.

8. Sugar is also used in treating other types of wounds, like bedsores, due to its ability to dehydrate tissues and inhibit bacterial growth.

9. Caution is advised, as the size of a prolapse can change, and improperly fitting appliances can cause the stoma to retract below skin level. Any significant changes should be assessed by an ostomy nurse or surgeon rather than attempting self-treatment without professional guidance.