December 2020

A convex pouching system refers to the shape of the back of the ostomy skin barrier–the side that goes against your skin. A convex skin barrier is not flat, rather it is curved or dome shaped. Using an integrated convex skin barrier is often referred to as “adding convexity” to a pouching system. This convexity provides a gentle push on the belly, allowing the stoma to protrude up and outward. This can help output go directly into the pouch and not under the skin barrier (which can cause a leak).

Below are a few myths or misconceptions about your ostomy:

1. All convexity is the same

Convexity should be chosen and customized on your specific stoma ad body shape. There are two main types of convexity: soft and firm. Soft convexity is flexible and conforms to your body as you move. Firm convexity is rigid and provides firm support around your stoma to help it stick out. In most cases, soft convex skin barriers are used on firmer abdomens, and firm convex skin barriers work best on soft abdomens. Someone may have a bad experience with convexity, only to learn that it was the wrong type for their stoma, body shape, or output.

2. A convex skin is uncomfortable or even painful

If your convex skin barrier is causing pain or discomfort, you are not wearing the right type of convexity. Based on your needs , and with guidance from a healthcare professional, consider trying some of the many convex barrier options available and see if they make a difference. The importance of addressing leakage should outweigh the fear of trying something different. Use the health of the skin around your stoma as a barometer. If your skin looks good, and you are not leaking, you’ll know you are using the right type of ostomy skin barrier for a good fit.

3. I have to wait to use convexity

You don’t need to wait a certain amount of time before using a convex skin barrier. Each person is different. Some may need to add

convexity immediately after surgery, while others may not need it at all.

4. If my stoma is level with my skin, I may need a convex skin barrier

In most cases this is true, but choosing a type of convexity can depend on your stoma output. There are always exceptions and everyone has different experiences. For example, someone who has a colostomy with formed stool and regular bowel habits may not need to use convexity, even if their stoma is flush to the skin. That’s because formed stool is unlikely to leak underneath the skin barrier. On the other hand, more liquid output can increase the chances of leakage.

Consider trying a convex skin barrier to see if it will help prevent leakage and skin issues, and increase your pouching system wear time (i.e., how long you can wear your skin barrier before it fails). Convex skin barriers come in both pre-cut and cut to fit options and are covered by most insurance plans. An ostomy nurse can help determine which type of convexity is right for you and when you should use it.

For more information on skin barrier convexity and other resources, visit the Hollister Ostomy Learning Center.

Terri Cobb, BSN, RN, CWOCN earned her degree in 1991 and became a board-certified CWOCN in 2011. Currently on staff at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, her responsibilities include caring for ostomy patients of all age groups from the neonate and beyond.

This information is form a UOAA digital sponsor, Hollister Inc.

Tips For Ostomates to Enjoy Living an Active Life

Summarized by Susie Leonard Seller, Spokeane Ostomy Support Group Coordinator

In the midst of coping with the COVID-19 Pandemic, it is seen more important to make wise choices to remain healthy. During a Zoom Conference Call in May 2020, Michelle Best, BSN, RN, CWOCN, at Providence Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane, used a holistic approach to describe tips for enjoying a happy life. She shared many practical ideas for strengthening physical, mental, emotional, and social health. One of the biggest challenges for ostomates is emotional well-being. Those who have a temporary ostomy, often choose to distance themselves, and to “hide out” for a few months until their ostomy is reversed. In contrast, permanent ostomates require more coping skills. Research demonstrates that the top two boosters are: social and family support, as well as participating in an Ostomy Support Group, to hear tips from peers.

These resources encourage ostomates to transition from fear and depression–to confidence. Reclaiming a quality of life includes learning to successfully manage one’s ostomy by knowing how to solve typical problems, such as leaks and having adequate supplies on hand. Remaining

physically active, and enjoying favorite activities are important factors for increasing life satisfaction.

With your physicians approval, new research encourages ostomates to start lightly exercising within four days after their ostomy surgery. Pelvic tilts, knee rolls and light core exercises support recovering more quickly, as well as increasing your flexibility and stamina. As you are able, start slowly and go at your own pace. Try to increase to 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly and adding a strength training twice a week. Yes this means walking, biking, gardening, etc, for about 30 minutes at least 5 times a week! You can exercise solo, inside–perhaps with a video, or outside with a friend. Walking also increases your bone density. There are many types of adaptive equipment to support your interests. These range from camouflaging and wraps for your bag to encourage intimate sexual activities to protective gear for sports and belts to prevent hernias.

While traveling, plan ahead! If flying, in addition to packing your face mask and personal sanitizers, pack extra ostomy supplies and extra clothing in your carry-on. Murphy’s Law encourages you to take more supplies than you think you’ll need. Pre-cut your wafers–since many airlines will not allow scissors in carry-on bags. Consider mailing ostomy supplies to your destination. Whenever possible, have contact information for an ostomy nurse at your destination…just in case. Modify your diet as needed to avoid triggering foods that cause gas or too much output. Stay hydrated. The more you enjoy supportive relationships and healthy otlets, the higher your life satisfaction will be! (Note: View Michelle’s Power Point Presentation on “Living Active Lives” at the www.inlandnwostomy.org website!)

2Coronavirus One-Liners (Groaners)

via Springfield’s Ostomy Newsletter