For many ostomy appliances, the convexity of it matters.
This is the outward shape of the faceplate, which is like the top of the bell, that’s
used to reach into the peristomal skin in order to create the best seal possible.
This exists to provide the optimal seal. The stoma can have a shape that’s
uneven, unusual in size, and other irregularities that make the non-convex
applies ineffective. Convex ostomy bag systems curve outwards, and with that,
it can press into the peristomal skin in order to protrude to the stoma long
enough for the ostomy bag to attach in a firm and secure manner.
One of the key parts of ostomy care is to provide a secure
and have a predictable seal. Having the convexity in place is important for
achieving this. convex products are usually the preferred means for flat and
retracted stomas, and will help compensate for the peristomal planes, and it helps
with reducing the creases and the folds. While there are many products
available with a lot of depths and shapes, there is little supporting evidence
to guide the use and selection.
The origin of this is not known. There are limitations in
early product availability and the need to cope with the wrongfully constricted
stomas or irregular body contours that were historically addressed by the
creative use of the belts, rings, and other medical adhesives. During the 80s
and the 90s, there were many ostomy product manufacturers that were made to
release the convex skin barriers that were made for the different systems. There is also the new accessories such as the
barrier rings and the convex skin barriers. While these are used consistently
to describe the curvature of the adhesive sides of the barriers and accessories,
there are still undefined descriptors.
There are no industry standards for the ability to determine the
different flexibility and other aspects of this feature. There is still research which needs to be
done on this,which does leave the determination of the matching stomal
protrusion and the peristomal contours to approximate the barriers of the
different systems, and right now, only really the clinicians can help with
showing you the correct way to have something such as this.
You might wonder what a convex pouching system is. These are differing in how they sit around
the stoma. The flat one will sit flat
around the stoma, whereas the convex ones are different, since they will curve around
the skin. The outward curve will then press down on the skin, and from there,
it will help push the stoma out more, and will offer a better emptying means
for the pouching system.
This might be used if you need to stop the stool or leakage,
offer a comfier and secure means to hold al of this in, stop skin irritation,
improve the wear time, and also help save you some time and money.
You might end up suing this to help with preventing frequent
leakage that’s caused by a stoma that empties either below or at the skin
surface, any wrinkles and scars or creases in the skin, or if there is soft
abdomen around the stoma. This will help with wearing in many cases, especially
when compared to a pouching system. While this isn’t for everyone, and it might
be a bit uncomfortable at first, it’s a good option for those who have trouble
with the flat options for your stoma products.
