Ostomy Pouching System - Pouches

Pouches

For maximum hygiene and to reduce risk of infection, a one-piece (open-end) bag should be changed every 24 hours. A two-piece bag's base plate should be changed weekly with the bag changed every 24 hours.

The method of attachment to the wafer varies between manufactures and includes permanent (one-piece), press-on/click ("Tupperware" type), turning locking rings and "sticky" adhesive mounts. The two-piece arrangement allows pouches to be exchanged without removing the wafer; for example, some people prefer to temporarily switch to a "mini-pouch" for swimming, intimate and other short-term activities. Mini-pouches are suitable for minimum usage only.

Pouches can be broken down into two basic types: open-end (drainable) and closed-end (disposable).

• Open-end pouches have a resealable end that can be opened to drain the contents of the pouch into a toilet. The end is sealed Velcro-type closure at the end that eliminates the need for a clip.
• Closed-end pouches must be removed and replaced with a new pouch once the bag is full. This system can cause extreme damage to the skin area under the adhesive due to the frequency of removal and re-application.

The use of open-end vs. closed-end pouches is dependent on the frequency in which an individual needs to empty the contents, as well as economics.

Gas is created during digestion, and an airtight pouch will collect this and inflate. To prevent this some pouches are available with special charcoal filtered vents that will allow the gas to escape, and prevent ballooning at night.