This topic is about someone experiencing frequent leaks or "blowouts" with their colostomy, which is temporary and deeply recessed, making it challenging to manage. They are seeking advice to improve the situation and extend the wear time of their ostomy appliance. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:
1. The stoma is described as being very small, like a "super innie belly button," and sits below skin level, which complicates the use of standard appliances.
2. The person has tried both one-piece and two-piece systems, along with paste and barrier rings, but still faces issues due to skin folds around the stoma.
3. They are waiting for a custom-molded wafer and bag set, which has been arranged by their ostomy nurse and should arrive in about a month.
4. There is a concern about whether pursuing a surgical revision of the stoma might delay the planned reversal surgery.
5. Pressing on the abdomen does not help in bringing the stoma above skin level.
Advice and insights from others include:
- Seek personalized help from an ostomy or stoma nurse, which has already been done, and they have arranged for a custom appliance.
- Consult with the surgeon to discuss the feasibility and worth of a stoma revision, especially since the ostomy is temporary and a reversal is planned.
- Understand that deeply recessed stomas often challenge standard wafers, pastes, and rings, leading to persistent leaks.
- Consider surgical revision as a last resort, as some suggest it might be the only definitive solution if a proper seal cannot be achieved.
- Until the custom appliance arrives or the reversal is done, increase the frequency of appliance changes if necessary to prevent skin damage. When changing, gently tug or press around the stoma to encourage it to protrude slightly before applying the wafer.
- Emotional support is important. It's reassuring to know that these difficulties are not the individual's fault, and staying in close contact with healthcare professionals is encouraged while waiting for the customized product.
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