Closed-End Ostomy Pouching Systems

A closed-end ostomy pouching system utilizes a bag with no open end, which means that once this bag is full, you are going to have to discard it.

Now the question is, when should you consider using a closed-end ostomy pouching system. You can benefit from a closed-end ostomy system if you do not have an unpredictable or infrequent discharge of stomal output. Most typically, the stomal output is more firm with a colostomy. Such people can benefit from closed-end bags. Similarly, people with ileostomies or urostomies do not benefit from closed ostomy systems as they have to deal with the more watery and frequent stomal output.

The basics of closed-end ostomy systems

Closed ostomy pouching systems come in different sizes and styles. Manufacturing companies aim at producing closed bags that are more concealable. And since a patient needs this bag to wear once and throw away when it’s full, the bag usually consists of disposable materials. A closed-end bag may be a part of both a one-piece ostomy system and a two-piece ostomy system. If you wish to discard the entire system after a single use, you can use a one-piece ostomy system. And if you want the flange to remain connected to the stoma, you can use a two-piece system that allows detachment of the bag from the flange. You can choose any of these options depending on your requirements or recommendations from your ostomy care nurse.

Things to consider when choosing a closed-end ostomy bag

• Comfort
• Safety
• Ability to apply the bag
• Consistency of stomal output
• Stoma location
• Wearing time
• Peristomal skin health
• Shape of stoma
• Cost of ostomy supplies

Advantages of closed-end ostomy bags

• Changing closed-end bags is a quicker and convenient process.
• Many brands manufacture flushable bags that do not end up clogging the plumbing system when flushed.
• With a reduced risk of accidental leakage, patients remain confident while using closed-end bags.

Disadvantages of closed ostomy systems

Closed-end bags have many disadvantages to offer to the patients for whom this pouching system is not ideal. That said, some of the most common disadvantages of these bags are as under.

• These bags are not ideal for the patients who have to deal with a more watery stomal output.
• Using this bag might prove to be stressful at the places that do not have appropriate disposal facilities.
• You are going to have to change the bag more frequently. That can result in skin irritation and inflammation.

To avoid the disadvantages, it is necessary to ask your doctor if you can safely use this pouching system. And even if you are eligible, you need to use it in the right way, for which you are going to have to get instructions from experts.