During the surgical procedure called an ostomy, an opening called a stoma is constructed externally in the abdominal wall. Stomas can range in size from that of a dime to that of a half dollar. This opening is used to drain feces, urine, and other body waste into a receptacle called an ostomy bag. The process is extremely efficient and in most cases, painless. However, care for your stoma should be taken to prevent irritation and infection.

Although stomas don't require that much care, keeping them clean should be a number one priority. There are special cleansing wipes and covers to help keep the area clean and infection free. Stomas don't have any nerve endings, so you won't feel any pain from its use. However, they do have a lot of blood vessels and can bleed if irritated or rubbed, so don't be alarmed if this happens every now and then. Your doctor should be called, however, if this persists or worsens.

Bags for your stoma can be drainable or closed, depending on your preference. For those that wear them at all times, though, it is imperative that the matter in the bag doesn't flow back into the stoma, as this can cause infection. There are special bags now that have flow-stop technology to prevent this from happening.

For more information about our stock of stoma care products at SGV Medical Supplies, visit us online at www.sgvmedical.com. We can also be reached by phone at 818-787-0162. We look forward to hearing from you!