Ostomy Pouches

A Brief Guide to Ostomy Pouching Systems

Ostomy pouching systems are a set of two parts that include a skin barrier and a collection pouch. The pouch is neatly attached to the abdomen by the skin barrier and fitted over and around the stoma to collect the expelled waste. The barrier protects the stoma from the waste output and is neutral to the skin. These pouching systems are very important for the perfect functioning of an ostomy and hence ostomates require the right kind of pouching system to make sure that they ostomy remains healthy and functioning.

Pouching systems are commonly used for three types of ostomies, namely, ileostomy, colostomy, and urostomy.

Types of Pouching Systems

There are two types of pouching systems for Ileostomies and Colostomies:

• One-piece systems - One-Piece systems consist of a skin barrier and pouch combined together as a single unit. They provide greater simplicity than two-piece systems but require changing the entire unit, including skin barrier, when the pouch is changed. The simple application of the system makes it a common choice for people who want the ease of application and also do not mind changing the entire system whenever required. One can easily peel of the cover from the skin barrier and place it around the stoma with care. An added advantage of one-piece systems is that they are more concealable under clothing since they are flatter than their counterparts. They are hence recommended to patients that have a bulge or a hernia near the ostomy.

ConvaTec ActiveLife One-Piece Pre-Cut Opaque Drainable Pouch With Stomahesive Skin Barrier

• Two-piece systems - Two-Piece systems allow the change of pouches while leaving the barrier attached to the skin. The barrier is part of a "flange" unit. The pouches include a closing ring that attaches mechanically to a mating piece on the flange. A common connection mechanism consists of a pressure fit snap ring, similar to that used in Tupperware systems at our homes. This type of system is suited for people who have to change their pouch consistently throughout the day but do not want to change the skin barrier every now and then. The skin barrier till is functioning and hygienic can be reused with a number of pouches.

Hollister New Image Two-Piece Ultra-Clear Drainable Ostomy Pouch With Lock n Roll Microseal Closure

Irrigation Pouching Systems

In some colostomies there might be an event of irrigation, using a procedure analogous to an enema. This is carried out to clean the stool directly out of the colon through the stoma. It requires a special irrigation system, consisting of an irrigation bag with a connecting tube (or catheter), a stoma cone and an irrigation sleeve. A special lubricant is sometimes used on the stoma in preparation for irrigation. After the irrigation, some colostomates can use a stoma cap, a one- or two-piece system which simply covers and protects the stoma. This procedure is usually done to avoid the need to wear a pouch.

Types of Pouches

Depending on the frequency of the output one can choose between two different pouch options.

• Drainable Pouches - Integrated with a clamp or a closure device, these pouches are apt for people who have a heavy output throughout the day. Emptying the pouch is an easy task and should be done once the pouch is 1/3rd full. For urostomies though, drainable pouches are fitted with a valve to ease the draining of urine.

ConvaTec SUR-FIT Natura Two-Piece Mold-To-Fit Opaque Drainable Ostomy Pouch Without Filter	Genairex Securi-T One-Piece Standard Wear Cut-to-Fit Transparent 9 Inches Drainable Pouch

• Closed Pouches - Also known as disposable pouches, they can be removed easily and just disposed off with ease. Closed Pouches are recommended for people who have a low output throughout the day. They cannot be reused under any circumstances as they do not have a clamp or closure to allow reattachment or draining.

Coloplast Assura One-Piece Convex Light Standard Pre-Cut Midi Opaque Closed Pouch With Filter	ConvaTec SUR-FIT Natura Two-Piece Opaque Closed-End Pouch With Filter

Different Pouching Accessories

There are a number of pouching accessories that help in easing and aiding the functioning of the ostomy pouching systems.

• Pouch Covers - Pouch Covers are made of either cotton or cotton blend materials and are used to cover and protect the skin by fitting neatly over the pouch. They are usually used during intimate situations to cover or conceal the pouch. Some pouching systems are accompanied by a pouch cover.

C&S Daily Wear Close End Pink Ostomy Pouch Cover

• Skin Barrier Liquids/Wipes/Powders - These accessories are used when the skin is irritated due to the material, the duration of wear, or the waste coming in contact with the skin. It is also used to clear excess moisture from the skin which might cause loose fitting or leakage.

Genairex Securi-T Ostomy Powder	ConvaTec AllKare Protective Barrier Wipes

• Skin Barrier Pastes, Strips, or Rings - They are used to fill the gaps between the skin barrier and the skin to provide extra security and also to prevent any sort of leakage of waste. They also improves wear time.

Coloplast Brava Elastic Barrier Strips	ConvaTec Stomahesive Paste	Hollister Adapt Ostomy Barrier Rings

• Ostomy Belts - Ostomy belts are used to secure the pouch in place. Some have hooks and loops so that the pouch can be held in place without the risk of leaking or falling. It can be used in tandem with a convex skin barrier.

Coloplast Brava Adjustable Ostomy Belt

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