Colostomy equipment

After a colostomy is formed, the opening in your abdomen (known as the stoma) produces digestive waste in the form of faeces. The consistency of your faeces depends on which part of your colon is diverted, as well as your diet and fluid intake.

A colostomy pouch will usually be required to collect your faeces. These pouches often need to be removed and replaced when full (usually one to three times a day), although drainable pouches that only need to be replaced every one or two days may be used if you have particularly loose faeces.

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There's a wide range of colostomy appliances available, including:

• a one-piece pouch – the bag and flange (part that sticks to your skin) are joined together; the appliance is removed when full and disposed of.

• a two-piece pouch – the bag and flange are separate, but can be connected; the flange can be left on your skin for several days and the bag removed and disposed of several times a day.

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If a patient produces faces in a regular and predictable pattern, they may not always need to   wear a colostomy bag. However as occasional leakages can occur, its recommended they wear a small stoma cap.

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A specialist stoma nurse will usually see the patient before and after the operation can help them choose the most suitable appliance.

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To help reduce skin irritation, colostomy appliances are made from hypoallergenic material, and contain special filters that ensure the appliance doesn't release any unpleasant odours.

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There are additional products that can make living with a colostomy more convenient, including:

Support belts and girdles

• Deodorisers that can be inserted into the appliance

• Protective skin wipes

• Adhesive remover sprays

• Protective stoma rings

• Specially designed underwear and swimwear

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Ordering and paying for appliances

The patient will be given an initial supply of colostomy appliances before they leave hospital, as well of the prescription information. 

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