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Skin around the stoma
Unlike skin wounds, where the ultimate treatment goal is usually closure by wound healing, ostomies are artificial openings in the intestine that are designed to stay open in order to drain the stoma effluents. Complications of the peristomal skin, which is the skin in direct neighborhood to the mucocutaneous junction, are common and require specific management.
Nearly half of patients with permanent stomas are affected by peristomal skin disorders. Multiple reasons, like chemical irritation, mechanical injury, or infections can contribute to the development of a peristomal skin disorder. Notably, patients often are not aware of it: Up to 56 percent of those with severe skin disorders report that they do not suffer from any skin disorder according to a Danish study.
Patient education not only in the prevention, but also in the detection and the treatment of initial skin alterations is an essential preventive action. However, the selection of the appropriate skin care products and ostomy appliances adapted to the individual needs is crucial.
Diligent skin care, thoroughly cleansing between bag changes but also the right adhesive are the cornerstones to avoid and overcome dermatological complications. It is essential that the ostomy bag has an effective and skin-friendly adhesive. Adhesion to the peristomal skin should be firm enough to prevent leakage, yet be easy to remove, so that the user avoids pain and skin damage.