Ileo-Anal Reservoir (J-Pouch) Procedure Question: I have Ulcerative Colitis and have been told I need to have my colon removed. Someone told me about the ileo-anal pouch. What is this? Answer: History of the ileo-anal reservoir (IAR) procedure Ileo-anal reservoir [...]
Ileo-Anal Reservoir (J-Pouch) Complications Question: Are there any complications that can happen with an Ileo-anal reservoir (IAR) operation? Answer: There are possible complications that are associated with any abdominal operation. There are also possible complications that are more specific to [...]
Gas in Pouch Question: I seem to have a lot of gas in my pouch. What is the best way to manage it? Answer: The production of gas through a stoma depends on two major factors: swallowed air and gas [...]
Diet and Ostomies Question: I have had an ileostomy for 4 months now. Before I went home, the dietitian told me about foods that I should stay away from for 6 weeks after my surgery so that I don’t get [...]
Convex Flanges Question: I have had my ileostomy for years and have been using a regular pre-cut flat flange. Lately I have been having more problems with leakage and someone suggested that I needed a convex flange. What is a [...]
Concealing your Appliance Question: I am worried that people can see my ostomy appliance under my clothes. Is there any way that I can “hide” my pouch better? Answer: Concealment of an ostomy appliance under clothes is a common concern. [...]
Closed-End Pouches Question: I have had a colostomy for 5 years and have been using a 2-piece pouch with a drainable pouch/clip. Recently, a friend told me that I should try closed-end pouches. What are the advantages of a closed [...]
Bowel Blockage or Obstruction Question: I had ulcerative colitis, have had my large intestine removed, and have an ileostomy. I just got out of hospital after having experienced a bowel obstruction. Can this happen again? Answer: A bowel obstruction is [...]
Bathing with an Ostomy Question: I have just returned home from the hospital and have a new ostomy. I am concerned about bathing with my pouch. Is there anything I should know before I have a bath or shower? Answer: [...]
Appliance Wear-Times Question: I have just come home from the hospital with an ostomy. My ET in the hospital said I should change the appliance twice a week, but my HomeCare Nurse says I only need to do it once [...]
