Convexity

The convexity of an ostomy pouch refers to the outward bulge of the pouching system's baseplate. All ostomy supplies manufacturers produce convex ostomy pouches to help patients who have a retracted stoma.

Why use a convex pouch

Nurses and doctors recommend convex pouches to the patients who have a stoma under the skin fold, in dips, across skin creases, or otherwise retracted.

Using an ostomy pouch with a flat skin barrier on such stomas can result in loose-fitting, leakage, and resultant skin soreness.

The circular hump or ridge of a convex baseplate puts pressure on the skin around the stoma when you wear the ostomy pouch. It can iron out creases or fill the dips, creating a tighter adhesion with the skin around the stoma. Stomas that are mildly retracted can protrude further to reach well inside the pouch. The convex baseplate is usually sturdier compared to the flat baseplate. In some cases, using a convex baseplate eliminates the need to use paste or seals to achieve a tighter seal.

Using a belt

Convex pouches usually come with belt loops. It gives you the option to use a belt to increase the safety of the pouch. Belts are usually elastic, and they come with an adjuster to allow you to apply an appropriate amount of pressure onto the ostomy pouch. It increases the firmness of the convexity. However, make sure that you are not making the belt too tight to cause discomfort.

Things that can go wrong

The pressure on the skin around the stoma can result in bruising if you are using a convex ostomy pouch. The risk will be higher if you are using a belt. Therefore, make sure to check your stoma and the skin around it more often. It will help you prevent any bruising. You can also treat minor bruising before it becomes serious.

While attaching the belt, make sure that its hooks are facing towards away from the body. These hooks can cause injury when they push against the abdominal skin. These belts can also cause sore chaffed skin over bony prominences. Therefore, you have to make it loose for some time to allow your skin to breathe a bit.

If you have a newly formed stoma, you may not find the use of convexity much helpful. Using it in such cases can result in delayed healing and other issues. If there is a leakage problem in the first few days after surgery, you may need to use a pouch with gentle convexity.

Which convexity to use

Why you need convexity determines the type of it you need to use. If the retraction is not that severe, you may need to use gentle convexity. A stronger convexity will be required if the retraction is deeper.

You can discuss with your doctor regarding convexity that you can use. You can also discuss the size of the plateau of the faceplate. Remember to discuss each and everything with the doctor or nurse beforehand.