This topic is about managing chronic ostomy leaks, especially when dealing with challenges like scar tissue and low body weight. The person sharing their experience has had an ostomy for two and a half years and is facing frequent leaks, with some appliances lasting only a few hours. The appliance sits over significant surgical scars, and the individual is quite underweight, which complicates the situation. They have tried standard sealants without success and are looking for practical solutions. Here are some helpful suggestions:
- Scar tissue can make it difficult for the appliance to stick properly. It might be worth consulting a surgeon or dermatologist to see if the scar tissue can be revised, softened, or flattened.
- Pay close attention to skin preparation. Use a soap that is free of lotion, dye, and fragrance to wash the area, and make sure the skin is completely dry before applying any products.
- Consider using a moldable barrier ring, such as Hollister Adapt Moldable Rings, Convatec Eakin Cohesive Seals, or Coloplast Brava Protective Rings. Many users have found that these rings can extend wear time significantly, sometimes from about 2 days to over 10 days.
- Use flange or extender strips, like Coloplast Brava Elastic Barrier Strips or Hollister Adapt Barrier Extenders, around the wafer to strengthen the seal and potentially add extra days of wear.
- Try applying the appliance while lying flat. This position can help the wafer better conform to the uneven contours of the abdomen caused by scars.
- A layering method that many find successful involves the following steps:
1. Start with clean and dry skin.
2. Apply a moldable barrier ring or stoma ring.
3. Place the wafer or flange.
4. Add flange or extender strips around the edge for extra security.
- If none of these solutions work, it might be worth discussing the possibility of surgically relocating the stoma to an area without scar tissue.
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