Two Piece Ostomy Systems, Drainable Pouches, Ostomy Bags

What is an Ostomy Pouch?

An ostomy pouch, also called a drainable pouch, is the bag which is placed over a stoma to collect either feces or urine, depending on what type of stoma it is. Various types of ostomy pouches are available; some are disposable while others are reusable. The choice of ostomy pouch will depend on an individual’s particular needs after an ostomy has been performed, and this may change over time.

And ostomy is a surgical procedure that is performed to divert either urine, in the case of a urostomy, or feces, in the case of an ileostomy or colostomy, through an opening in the abdominal area. Part of the intestine is normally utilized to make the diversion and the opening, or stoma, is located either to the right or left of the belly button on the abdomen. After surgery, the ostomy pouch is placed over the stoma, either as a two piece system having a pouch and flange, or as a one piece system. This system collects the urine or feces and then is emptied on a regular basis. The entire system should also be changed periodically.

The ostomy pouch may have a valve or tap at the bottom end in order for the waste to be emptied, or it may be a closed type of pouch. A collection bag, in the case of a urostomy, may be connected at this point to allow larger amounts of urine to be contained before emptying is necessary. This may be helpful in different situations, including during the night, being on long trips, and for paralyzed individuals who have difficulty with emptying the bag.

What is a Two Piece Ostomy System?

A two piece ostomy system is where the ostomy bag and the flange are two separate items, which are available as a kit or as two pieces that can be obtained individually. By getting the pieces separately, an individual has the option to choose the style of flange that is preferred as well as choose which style or size of ostomy bag that works, depending on the activity an individual is involved with. A two piece ostomy system allows the flange to remain in place for two to four days so the skin is not irritated as often by removing it daily. By being able to choose different ostomy bags, the size can alter such as using a smaller bag for swimming or intimacy, while a larger bag can be applied when the activity is completed. Changing bags is a quick and easy process, especially if running errands, attending parties, or anytime away from home.

What is the Difference Between Closed and Open Ostomy Bags?

Closed ostomy bags are sealed all around the unit and are meant to be used only one time and then thrown away. In other words, they cannot be reused or cleaned out, and they are helpful for those who have less discharge. Closed ostomy bags are convenient when an individual needs to change it at a friend’s house or in a public restroom. Since there is no draining involved, the steps are quick and easy. Simply take off the bag when it is around half full, clean the stoma, clean the flange, reattach a clean bag, and throw away the used bag. Because it is completely sealed, there is no chance of seepage or odors leaking from the bottom of the ostomy pouch.

Drainable ostomy bags are available in two different varieties and are reusable. They are made with a no closure system having a separate clip to seal the ostomy bag when it is used, or they are made with a built-in clip. Each type of integrated clip works a little differently, but they are all similar in that the clip is more discreet and less conspicuous under clothing, requiring little hand dexterity or strength to seal it. Also, there is no fear of the clip being lost and/or dropped during use. Whether or not the clip is built-in or separate, the ostomy pouch still needs to be drained.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

lb