Colostomy Pouches

A colostomy pouch also called a stoma bag or ostomy bag is a small, waterproof pouch used to collect waste from the body. During a surgical procedure known as a colostomy, an opening, called a stoma or ostomy, is formed between the large intestine (colon) and the abdominal wall. This allows waste products to be excreted through the opening in the abdominal wall rather than via the colon through the rectum and anus. Stool and other waste products are drained in the colostomy bag, which can then be emptied at regular intervals. At Shop Ostomy Supplies, we offer a variety of colostomy pouches from experienced manufacturers like Coloplast, Convatec, Hollister, Cymed, and many more at best prices.

What are the different types of Colostomy Pouches?

1. Two-Piece Colostomy Pouches

2-piece colostomy systems consist of two pieces:

• The flange, which adheres to the skin and should be changed every one or two days.
• The detachable pouch, which collects the waste.

2. One-Piece Colostomy Pouches

In 1-piece colostomy systems, the flange and bag are attached to each other. They both are disposed of and replaced simultaneously.

How to choose a Colostomy Bag?

Colostomy bags come in a wide variety of sizes and capacities and most brands offer each bag they make with a one-piece or two-piece option. Colostomy specialists can assist you in deciding which type of colostomy bag will suit you the best. Factors that will be considered while helping a person choose the right kind of colostomy bag include:

Size of the Colostomy Pouch

Different bags may be suitable for different occasions and purposes. For example, a person may choose to use:

• A larger size stoma bag, one which can hold around 650 ml of waste during night. This will help avoid leakage as the volume of nightly discharged waste cannot be predicted beforehand.
• A small stoma bag, one which can hold around 400 ml of waste during daytime. Its small size makes it discreet and can also help you with your active lifestyle. Once full, it can be changed as and when required.

When a colostomy pouch is one-third to one-half full, it is generally recommended to empty the pouch. The smaller a colostomy pouch is, the more often it will need to be emptied.

Specifics of the Colostomy Surgery

• Where is the stoma located in relation with the digestive tract. This helps determine the volume of waste output. The higher the digestive tract is from the stoma, the greater is the volume of waste output generated.
• What kind of procedure was done and how much of the gastrointestinal system will still be functioning as normal when the bag is in use. This will help determine the volume of waste output and the expected firmness of stools. In general, the smaller the section of the colon is removed, the more firm the stool will be.

Usability of the Colostomy Pouch

All colostomy bags are designed to be changed and replaced regularly, but some types need to be changed more often than others. Choosing which type of colostomy bag to use is usually a matter of preference. Many people swap between different types, depending on their daily activities.

Closed-End Pouches

Closed-end pouches are specifically designed for single use. These disposable colostomy pouches are ideal for special occasions and intimate moments. Sometimes people even use them everyday. There is no leakage or clip to worry about. When the pouch is full, simply remove it, place it into a disposable bag and then discard it. To reduce odor and gas buildup some closed-end pouches are designed with a filter.

Drainable Pouches

Some people may prefer rinse-and-reuse drainable pouches. Simply by releasing the clip at the bottom of the pouch, they can be drained, allowing for quick and easy maintenance. These pouches are used majorly for ileostomy and colostomy.

How to change a Colostomy Bag?

The pouch can be changed as often as needed. At first, the procedure may prove difficult but it will get easier with practice.

Basic guidelines:

1. Thoroughly wash your hands using antibacterial gel or soap.

2. Gently ease the pouch from the stoma, using an adhesive remover to help if necessary.

3. By removing or cutting away the bottom section, empty the pouch into the toilet. If you don’t want to do this, pouches can be disposed of in their entirety into a disposal bag.

4. Clean the stoma with warm water and mild soap and thoroughly dry with a dry wipe.

5. Prepare the new pouch by removing the protective cover from the flange.

6. Place the flange over the stoma, ensuring there are no creases.