This topic is about the practical challenges someone faced while using Colo-Majic disposable liners with a ConvaTec Natura two-piece pouching system. The person found that changing the liner required removing the entire pouch, which exposed the stoma and could be problematic if the stoma became active during the process. They sought advice from Colo-Majic but were only told to consult a nurse. They are looking for practical solutions or alternatives to make the process easier and cleaner.
Here are some insights and advice shared by others:
1. The person is quite tall at 6' 6" and has difficulty sitting, kneeling, or bending to drain into a toilet. They have developed their own methods for emptying the pouch while standing:
- At home, they use a homemade stand and container.
- When out, they carry four flushable, biodegradable dog-waste bags.
- For fishing trips, they pack a 3-gallon bucket and a full backup kit.
2. They empty the pouch 5–6 times daily, prefer to keep it light, and have named it "Pancho." They also have mobility issues, including lymphedema in one leg and arthritis in the hands, for which they use Aspercreme.
3. The general opinion on Colo-Majic liners is that they are inconvenient, messy, and costly because the pouch must be removed, leading to potential spills if the stoma is active. Liners are more suitable for those with predictable, low-frequency output, while ileostomates often prefer drainable pouches.
4. Switching to a drainable pouch could be a better option. A standard drainable bag allows for quick and clean emptying by simply opening, emptying, wiping the tail, and closing. Alternatively, a two-piece closed (disposable) pouch can be used if you prefer to discard rather than drain.
5. For standing empty techniques, consider emptying into a dedicated container, like a 1000 cc plastic beaker, placed on a tray table. You can thin the contents with a little water if needed and then pour it into the toilet. Some people carry flushable doggie-bags or sandwich bags for quick disposal when on the go.
6. Toilet adaptations can help, such as replacing a round bowl with an elongated toilet, allowing some tall users to "scoot back" so the pouch tail reaches inside the bowl.
7. For odor control without liners, Hollister M9 Odor Eliminator Drops are highly recommended for instantly eliminating pouch smells. Adding a few drops after each emptying can prevent lingering odors.
8. Some product references include Colo-Majic Disposable Liners, ConvaTec Natura two-piece flange and pouches, and Hollister M9 Odor Eliminator Drops.
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