Pouching Solutions For Ostomates Who Are Unwilling To Use Scissors

A significant cause of concern, for people with ostomies, is the preparation of pouching systems, which might involve the use of scissors. However, the inability to cut the flange can result in complications to the stoma or the skin surrounding it. That may be the reason most of the ostomates prefer using cut-to-fit products.

However, cut-to-fit pouching systems are not an answer to all of the concerns. A stoma might not be a regular-shaped protrusion. Hence, it might not do well with a cut-to-fit solution. And since we are talking about the unwillingness or inability of ostomates to use scissors to prepare their pouching systems, it may be worth talking about some other more preferable options.

Pre-cut Pouching Systems

Let’s start with a simple solution. If your stoma has a regular round shape, you can opt for a pre-cut pouching system. There are many options available in pre-cut systems. You can choose one depending on the size and shape of your stoma. The range of these options usually starts with a small 3/4-inch (19mm) flange opening. The next alternative comes with a size increase of 1/8-inch (3-4 mm). The last option comes with a 1¾ (44mm) or 2-inch (51mm) opening.

When selecting a pouching system, you need to make sure that you are going for the one with a flange opening 1/8-inch (3-4 mm) larger than the base of your stoma. The opening of the same size as that of your stoma can result in injury to your stoma. Remember, not all styles of bags come with pre-cut options. So, you might need to switch to a different option if you must use a pre-cut system.

Using scissors

The good news is that you can easily cut the opening of your flange with a flange cutter, which is a specific type of scissor for creating or resizing flange openings. Several companies that manufacture ostomy supplies make round and oval-shaped flange cutters. These tools look pretty much like cookie cutters that can cut through the flange with the help of their sharp blades. And what’s interesting is that you do not need fine motor skills to produce the aspired shape of the flange opening.

New technology

If you want to make ostomy care an even easier job, you can consider using ConvaTec Moldable Technology™ (CMT). This pouching system comes with a barrier portion that doesn’t require any cutting. Instead, it uses a unique pliable technology that helps you create an opening of your desired shape and size. All you have to do is to work your fingers to roll the inner edge of the flange outward to expand the opening up to the size of your stoma. After setting the barrier onto the stoma, you will need to unroll the rolled edge until it touches the stoma. The soft cuff formed will not cause any irritation to the stoma even if it enlarges from time to time.