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Nov 22, 2025

New Here, Struggling with Stoma Leaks and Feeling Helpless

This topic is about managing leaks from an ostomy bag, specifically when there's a deep scar near the stoma. The person sharing their experience has a loop ileostomy and is using a convex drainable system with an ostomy belt. They face challenges with leaks due to a deep vertical scar close to the stoma, which causes the output to track along the scar and undermine the baseplate. While the system works fine overnight, daytime wear can vary significantly. Here are some suggestions and insights to help manage these leaks:

1. Barrier Rings:
- Consider trying moldable rings from brands like Salts Healthcare, Hollister, Coloplast, or standard hydrocolloid rings in various sizes and flexibilities.
- Warm the ring using body heat or a blow-dryer, then adjust it by breaking, overlapping, or rolling it into a "noodle" shape to build up the scar side. You can place it on the skin or wafer first, depending on which seals better.
- Some people use a full ring with an extra quarter-ring to fill the scar indentation, while others flatten the ring to remove edges.

2. Paste or Gap-Filler:
- Apply ostomy paste directly into the scar or any low spot, then place a thin barrier ring and wafer over it. This method has helped others with similar issues. Any ostomy paste can work, though it might be messy.

3. Wafer Choice and Flexibility:
- If convexity was chosen only to prevent leaks, try a flat wafer like the Hollister 2-piece flat cuttable wafer, which has helped others when paired with a built-up ring.
- If convexity is necessary, consider a soft-convex wafer instead of a hard-convex one. You can request samples from brands like Coloplast, Hollister, ConvaTec, Oakmed, and Salts Healthcare.
- Coloplast SenSura Mio (flat or light convex) and SenSura Mio Flex are known for their flexible flange that adapts to uneven skin.

4. Skin Preparation:
- Dust any weepy or irritated skin with stoma powder, then seal it with a barrier liquid like 3M Cavilon. Ensure both the powder and barrier spray are completely dry before attaching rings or wafer.
- Keep the appliance and skin warm during application to improve adhesive performance and help rings conform to creases.

5. Support Belts and Accessories:
- Continue using your Oakmed belt or try a Nu-Hope supportive belt for extra hold.
- Some people extend wear time by snapping off soiled Hollister 2-piece bags and snapping on a fresh one without changing the wafer.

6. Additional Practical Tips:
- If allowed by your doctor or ET nurse, cut a crescent out of the wafer on the scar side to treat the scar beneath the flange.
- Remove the filter from bags if pancaking occurs, or use non-filtered pouches.
- Note when your stoma is least active, often early morning, for longer shower time without the appliance. Avoid tea or coffee beforehand to keep output quiet.
- Expect changes in the stoma and surrounding contours over time, and keep reassessing the fit.
- Request free samples and nurse support from major manufacturers like Oakmed, Coloplast, Hollister, ConvaTec, and Salts Healthcare.
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