All You Need to Know About Ostomy Accessories

Regardless of your age or occupation, living with an ostomy can be a little challenging at first. After your surgery, you will receive comprehensive information and training on different ostomy pouches, ostomy accessories, and how and when to use them. It may also be challenging to receive all the information at once, especially in a stressful hospital environment. To help you through the process, this guide will give you an understanding of different ostomy supplies and when to use them. Let us have a look.

What is an Ostomy?

Understanding ostomy and its different types can help you determine the best supplies for your condition. The common types of ostomies include:

1. Colostomy: Diverting the colon or large intestine through the abdomen.
2. Ileostomy: Diverting the ileum or farthest end of the large intestine through the abdomen.
3. Urostomy: Diverting the bladder through the abdomen.

What Are Ostomy Systems?

An ostomy system consists of different types of ostomy bags or pouches. The main ostomy pouches are of two types:

One Piece Pouching System

In this type, the bag and ostomy skin barrier are connected. To change the pouch, you need to remove the bag, and barrier, and clean the skin after each change.

Two-Piece Pouching System

In this type, the bag and skin barrier are different. Once you fix the barrier onto your skin, it can stay for at least 2-4 days. Hence, when you need to change the pouch, only the bag can be detached, emptied, reattached or thrown away.

What Are Ostomy Accessories?

Finding the right ostomy accessories or supplies suitable for you can take some time. Initially, you may experience odour, leakage, or skin irritation. Using the right ostomy kit can help you manage such situations and reduce their risks. 

The different ostomy accessories available are:

Ostomy Skin Barrier or Wafer

A skin barrier connects the ostomy pouch to the abdomen. It also helps in protecting the skin around the stoma from irritation and infection. Depending on your type of surgery and ostomy system, you may need to choose your preferred size and shape, apply it around the stoma, and seal it properly. These are also available in two types:

Pre-Cut Skin Barrier

As the name suggests, this type is sized and cut according to your needs and to make your changing system easier. This is suitable for patients with rounded stoma.

Cut to Fit Skin Barrier

This type is suitable for patients with unusually shaped stomas. It allows the patients to customize the barrier and prevent leaks. 

Adhesive Remover

An adhesive remover is one of the most useful ostomy accessories. It helps in keeping the area around the stoma clean and reduces the risk of infection. You may require this removal whenever you wish to change the barrier or remove excess adhesive before re-attaching a new one. Usually, adhesive removers come in the shape of wipes, but you may also find other types depending on your choice.

Skin Barrier Wipes

Skin barrier wipes are excellent for cleaning the skin around the stoma and reduce the risk of infection or irritation. These are used in between pouch changes or when putting a new adhesive onto the skin. Make sure, however, to let the area completely dry before applying the new adhesive.

Ostomy Barrier Rings

An ostomy barrier ring is attached to the skin around the stoma before the skin barrier to create a strong seal. These rings are available in different sizes and shapes and are suitable for patients with uneven skin around the stoma.

Skin Barrier Paste

Like barrier rings, a skin barrier paste or stoma paste helps to fill the uneven areas between the skin wafer and the stoma. This helps prevent leakage and ensure a good seal. This may be available in the form of adhesive strips or a squeezable paste. 

Stoma Powder

Stoma powder is used to dry the adhesive and help in improving adhesion. In addition, it can also help in the healing of damaged or irritated stomas.

Ostomy Belts

Some patients also use ostomy belts to keep the barrier tightly in place. These are highly beneficial if you are planning for a sport or any intense exercise and require extra protection.

Odor Controller

Although a strong smell out of the seal is highly unlikely, you can still use several products to reduce the odour. Odour controllers are in the form of sprays or tablets that can be put inside the pouch. 

Takeaway

Wearing an ostomy bag and using different ostomy accessories may not be glamorous. The innovative products, however, can help in making your life a tad easier and enjoy all your favourite activities. If you feel any inconvenience with ostomy, make sure to communicate the same to your doctor or nurse. The healthcare professionals will recommend a suitable accessory for your concern and help you lead a normal life after an ostomy.

Disclaimer: Always read the label and follow the directions for use. prior to use, be sure to read the instructions for use for information regarding intended use, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and instructions.