Ostomy Pouches, Colostomy Bags, Ostomy Systems

What is an Ostomy?

An ostomy is a hole in the body made by a surgeon where urinary waste and fecal excrement passes through. There are times when it is necessary to bypass or remove a portion or all of the colon, small bowel, or bladder. Therefore, the elimination of human waste is accomplished by way of an ostomy. Normally, the end of the hole, called a stoma, is brought to the wall of the abdomen. As a result, an ostomy is utilized to help heal an injury or surgical wound to the body part. Once the injury or wound is healed, the ostomy is often reversed.

There are three common types of ostomies: ileostomy, colostomy, and urostomy, depending on the body part where the surgery was performed. An ileostomy is performed on the last portion of the small intestine, a colostomy is on the colon, and a urostomy allows urine to bypass the bladder. All ostomies need a bag to trap and contain the waste which is excreted. There are different types of ostomy bags available, such as one-piece or two-piece bags, and they are either drainable or closed.

What are One-Piece and Two-Piece Ostomy Bags?

A one-piece ostomy bag is where the bag and the adhesive base plate, also called a flange, wafer, or skin barrier, are one system. They are one item, therefore, they cannot be separated. A one-piece ostomy bag has a lower profile so it is less visible under clothing. This can be helpful when wearing a more fitted style of clothing. Since the bag and flange cannot be separated, it may feel more secure when wearing it because they will not come apart. But, the skin may become tender when changing the flange at every bag change and cause some irritation. Also, it is important to have the bag and flange system positioned around the stoma correctly each time the bag is changed.

A two-piece ostomy bag is where the bag and the base plate/wafer/flange are two separate items. These items can be available separately, or they can come together in a kit as well. By choosing the items separately, the two-piece ostomy system is more versatile in regards to having options for the style of wafer that is preferred along with choosing the size and style of bag that is desired. Depending on the activity an individual is involved in can determine the style of bag and wafer that is utilized.

Since a flange or wafer remains in place for two to four days at a time, the skin will become less irritated. Also, the size of the bag which is used can be altered according to the activity that is being performed. For example, a smaller bag is used for swimming or during intimacy, then after the activity, a regular sized bag can be put in place. Changing bags is fast and easy, making it convenient when running errands, at work, or anytime away from home. A two-piece ostomy bag can be a little more bulky, making it more visible under tight fitting clothing. Therefore, loose clothes may be more helpful. There is also a slight possibility the bag and flange can come apart and cause a leak, but double checking the fit can help avoid this issue. It is also important to keep the area behind the flange clean for a good fit.

What are Closed and Drainable Ostomy Bags?

It is a matter of personal preference whether a closed or a drainable ostomy bag is best. A closed ostomy bag is sealed all around the bottom and is designed to be used one time and then thrown away. This type cannot be reused or cleaned out and is best for those who have less discharge. A closed bag is convenient when needing to change it when away from home, such as in a public restroom or at a friend’s house. Since there is no draining involved, the steps are very easy and quick. When the bag is about half full, simply take it off, clean around the stoma, clean the flange/wafer area, reattach a clean bag, and discard the used bag in a small trash container. Because the bag is completely sealed, there is no chance of leakage or odors from the bottom of the ostomy bag.

A drainable ostomy bag is reusable and available in two different types. It is either made with a built-in clip or with a no closure system where a separate clip seals the bag. Each built-in clip type works a little differently, but all are similar in that the clip is more discreet and less conspicuous under clothing. This type requires very little hand strength or dexterity to seal, and has no chance of the clip getting dropped or lost. It is best to try out an ostomy system while close to home in case anything goes wrong. This enables an individual to easily change it out without disrupting an activity.

Rehabmart is pleased to offer a wide selection of superior quality ostomy pouches from experienced and credentialed medical vendors, such as McKesson Medical-Surgical and Independence Medical.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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