Incision location/stoma

[Rl_gardner]

Hi not sure if anyone can answer this but..... I already have a stoma and am having my colon removed next week. I have been told they will follow my bellybutton line to open me up which means the dressing will sit under the flange of the bag. Has anyone experienced this? I'm wondering how I'm supposed to avoid leaks while I'm patched up.
Thanks

 

[Nyx]

Your stoma must be very close to your bellybutton...I had open surgery and had no issues with my dressings and my flange at all. There was a good gap of skin between the two. I'd talk to the doctor about it and see what they have to say. You don't want your output getting into your incision, or anything from your incision getting under your flange.

Sorry I haven't been more helpful...good luck with the surgery though!

 

[Rl_gardner]

Thank, I asked the recovery nurse if they would cut to the side and she said no but I'm gonna ask my surgeon on the morning how they're gonna do it.

 

[Nyx]

They should cut you straight up and down...I haven't seen or heard of anyone on here having their incision across their belly.

 

[Rl_gardner]

Sorry I meant off centre (up & down) rather across

 

[Terriernut]

Mine was close to my wound. But yes, definetely have a word with the surgeon. Also, have a word with the stoma nurse and have them mark you up first, and advise the surgeon.

It was quite difficult with the incision that close. But, stoma first, wound dressing second. So, flange first, then dressing is how I was taught by the stoma nurses and visiting nurses.

 

[Rl_gardner]

Brilliant thanks think it maybe ok as it won't actually be touching the wound just the area where the dressing will go so maybe a bit of cutting will help