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K
Hello. So, I'm going to be beginning j-pouch surgery in just over 2 weeks. I had my pre-op visit this past thursday and was given a two-piece bag to take home to get familiar with. I'm trying to determine the size of the flange on the one they gave me, because it seems rather large and I want to know if what I have here is generally a large size.
SO, my question is, from what points on the flange do I measure? From the outer most edge of the hard plastic? Or from the smaller, more inner raised ring that the bag clips to? Thanks!

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FM Former Member

I'm a little confused too.

However, from my own perspective what matters is the size of hole the Stoma passes through.

Normally the flange is available in predetermine Stoma size or no hole what so ever and is cut to size by using a template to measure the Stoma.

Your Stoma Nurses will assist in determining the size of your Stoma by use of a simple measuring template, such templates are available from all Stoma appliance manufacturers.

There is also the option of a mouldable flange, which is pre cut to fit a stoma within a specified range and will stretch over the Stoma and mould to its shape.

Personally, I favour the mouldable flange, I've used such a product for years.

The actual outer size of the flange, the area which adheres to the skin tends to be a generic size but will probably differ between manufacture.

FM
Last edited by Former Member
dgtracydgtracyMember
Okay I just re read it and if I understand u right the only size you want to know when it comes to this is what size u need to make. For that u measure your stoma they give you which is subject to change over the course of time. For me they gave a piece of cardboard with varying sized holes that I would put over my stoma, whatever slipped around it best is what I traced onto the piece wafer, the piece that adheres to your stomach. At some point I realized my stoma turned ovalish so I modified the wafer myself. Everyone is different sizes though
dgtracy
FM Former Member
I think you're over thinking this.

As far as I'm aware all Stoma bags, two peice or otherwise will have a centre hole, around this centre hole, unless a mouldable or pre cut flange, is a series of printed templates circles which are used as a guide when cutting the hole into the flange to fit snugly around the Stoma.

There's no need to measure the outer flange area, just work from the centre of the flange.
FM
K KB82Member
I'm not concerned with the size of the stoma hole. I want to know which points the manufacturer uses to measure the plastic part of the flange. There are multiple places from where they could make the measurement. (This measurement is part of the options when ordering). I'll ask my stoma nurse which model she gave me, then look it up or ask the manufacturer.
K
aka KNKLHEADaka KNKLHEADMember
My input? Get the smallest flange you can that doesn't interfere with your stoma. However, you don't yet know your stoma size so you will probably end up with the works-for-everyone HUGE flange from the hospital.

But as you can understand, a smaller flange size will help if your stoma is near a bend in your abdomen, etc. And I assume you will have an ileostomy; therefore, your stoma will be smaller than a colostomy.

Once you get the flange size, you will then be able to determine the size needed for the actual stoma .. mold-able, etc. I use the smallest size Convatec with mold-able insides and I actually cut it to be a bit larger to fit my loop ileo into neatly.

I hope this helps!
aka KNKLHEAD
FM Former Member

I think as you're not getting the answer you want to hear, you getting annoyed.

Although everyone on forums such as this; offers answers and opinion as a genuine desire to help.


All two piece flanges are used with a matching bag.

I've had an end ileostomy for years and I never needed to measure the outer flange area and of the many two piece products I've tried over the years, the outer flange area, including the Hospital supplied stock have all been of a similar size.

I've never noticed an outer flange being significantly smaller or larger.

FM
Last edited by Former Member
C CeeeeCeeeeMember
I agree. During the year I had my temporary ileostomy, I never needed to be concerned about the size of the actual wafer......just the stoma size which I controlled after using a template to decide the size I needed to cut it. Also, throughout the year, the size of my stoma opening changed at least a couple of times because my stoma repositioned itself and became more flush with my belly......not a thrilling occurrence, in my opinion. I understand this is not as much of a concern with a permanent ileostomy. Best wishes!
C
W wsh6745Member
When they marked my original spot for the temp stoma is was really high too. I didn't like that because I wanted to make sure it didn't stick out of my jeans, shorts or high-wasted bikini. I actually brought clothes with to try on and test with the stoma nurse. We ended up lowering the stoma position quite a bit. It made it just a little more uncomfortable with making room for the bag because it would kind go hang down the beginning of my pant leg but it was only for 10 weeks so manageable. I'm not sure if your male or female but I'm pretty glad now that my scars as low as they are and not visible in a swim suit.

After we measured my lower stoma hole, I actually attached the flange to my skin (around a marker circle for my stoma), filled my "test" 2-piece flange/bag up 1/3 with water and wore it for 2 days. It worked fine without leaking and it was comfortable on my skin so we went with it. If you are concerned that it may bother your ribs, fill it with water and try it out. This will give you peace with your placement or the opportunity to move it before surgery.

Good luck on your journey,
Wendy
W
K KB82Member
Thanks, Wendy. I spoke with my stoma nurse and she said she'll take a look at the placement for me when I come in the day of the surgery. Hopefully she lowers it because it would definitely be hindering movement where it is now. I know it's only supposed to be for 8 weeks or so but you never know. Many stories of people having to go longer for a myriad of reasons! Wink
K

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