Hello All,
I'm about a month out from my first surgery. Right now it's an end ileo. I'm trying to figure out what to use. I'm using the one-pieces they send you home with. They're ok, but no filter. I'd like to try a two-piece but am not sure. My stoma is centered on my... well... main fat roll. So I don't know if two-pieces have enough flexibility. I know it's a good thing, but some times all the choices are just too much.
Suggestions????
thanks,
Lani

Hi Lani! What part of Utah do you live in? I went to school there. You are going to get some very different answers to this question. I use a two piece system from hollister in their new image products. I cut to fit and use an extended wear wafer with a filtered bag that has the lock and roll open end. I'm sure I could use a lot of different brands and be happy but all I can say is that when you find a system that you are comfortable with it is hard to change. I can get about 6 days at most and at least 3. I feel that a 2 -piece is plenty flexible, but I recommend using an ostomy belt. I always use paste because it makes me feel more secure about my seal. My placement is on my left side and I don't have a fat roll to contend with so I can't help you there, but have you had problems with leaks because of that placement? definitely take advantage of the fact that companies will send you samples, I have never done so but my ostomy nurse gave me quite a selection so I tried a lot until I found one that never leaked and felt the most comfortable. It is a process for sure, but once you find the right fit for you it is something you don't think about again.

Most ostomy manufacturers will send you free samples to try out. Visit their websites and ask for some. The main ones are

http://www.coloplast.com
http://www.hollister.com
http://www.convatec.com
http://www.dansac.com

Good luck.

After much trial and error we now use the same system Marcene uses. We do not use any paste though because the alcohol in it bothers his skin too much. I like the 2 piece because if the bag gets messed up but not the wafer you do not need to change the whole thing. I also like to see where the wafer is going on. It's really all about trial and error though and finding what works for you best. The UOAA website has a few more links to companies aside from the ones shaz listed. Her site is also awesome if you have not seen it yet. ostomates.org

I have used a 2 piece system from Hollister (new image) since Mar. and I have a "robust" centerline on top of a hairy belly...LOL. The only problem I've had is the edges peel up, I guess due to the wrinkling from sitting, bending over etc, but the seal stays intact. Even when the wafer is loose up to the seal. I usually get a good 6-7 days wear out of them. Thank goodness the only time I've had a leak is the day before a change or due to a "brain fart" when changing. I'm trying the extended wear now, to see if I can stop the edge roll thing handled and so far have liked the results.

Thank you. I know I can get samples from the companies. I think I'm just trying to find the confidence to try them.
Marcene- I'm in Farmington, about 20 min north of Salt Lake.

Thank you again,
Lani