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May 05, 2024

Different Size Pouches - One-Piece vs. Two-Piece?

This topic is about choosing between different types of ostomy pouches, specifically one-piece and two-piece systems. The person asking the question is curious about the availability of different lengths for two-piece pouches and which system might be better overall. Here are some helpful insights and advice:

- Availability of shorter or "mini" pouches:
- Hollister offers two standard lengths in its two-piece line: about 7 inches (regular) and about 5 inches (mini), with the mini often listed as pediatric.
- Specific Hollister product numbers for mini pouches include 18383 (closed mini), 18203 (clamp-style mini drainable), and 18283 (Lock-n-Roll mini drainable). Compatible regular-length items are 18133 (standard drainable) and flange 11203.
- Most manufacturers make pediatric/mini drainables that fit adult flanges. You might need to request them directly from customer service or a supplier like Edgepark.

- One-piece vs. two-piece systems – pros and cons:
- Two-piece systems allow you to replace just the pouch if it leaks, becomes odorous, or needs to look smaller for special clothing, while the barrier stays on.
- One-piece systems sit closer to the body, are a bit flatter, and less visible under clothing, with fewer "parts."
- Two-piece bags can be rotated (e.g., 90° for a Stealth Belt or 180–360° for washing out) while still attached.
- The choice depends on your stoma type (ileostomy vs. colostomy), how often you change barriers, your activity level, and how convenient full appliance changes are for you.

- Sampling and personal testing:
- Request free samples from all three major U.S. brands (Hollister, Coloplast/“Mio,” ConvaTec) to find what your skin tolerates. One person noted that only Hollister avoided irritation.
- Keep notes on what matters to you: filters vs. no filters, clear vs. opaque fronts, firmness of tail spouts, need to reduce "pancaking," compatibility with peristomal hernia belts, etc.
- Insurance coverage and supplier contracts (e.g., Edgepark) may influence what you ultimately use.

- Everyday user tips:
- Mini drainables make formal wear easier, but expect to empty them more often.
- Shirts can still be tucked in with many two-piece systems; rotating the pouch or wearing larger shirts/jackets helps conceal it.
- Lubricants can limit sticking; some users purposely allow a bit of air in the pouch to let output drop to the bottom.
- Note that whole pills may pass through an ileostomy unchanged; consider sublingual or liquid medications if needed.
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