Convexity in Ostomy Appliances

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.