Selection and Considerations for the Use of Convexity

Abstract

　In stomal management, using a convex appliance may contribute to the better adherence to peristomal skin, which means longer wear time. However, if these convex appliances were used inappropriately, convexity may be rather causing peristomal skin trouble.
　This time, I had patients who developed stage I pressure ulcers in the peristomal plane because of the inappropriate use of convexity in the outpatient clinic, and therefore I considered the significance of using convex appliance in a selected manner. In selecting the applian , they were classified as shallow, moderate and deep by the degree of convexity.
　The result shows that when convex material is selected and applied, it isimportant to consider the following:
　　①Convexity should be used properly by the degree.(shallow, moderate, deep).
　　②Convex appliance is not necessarily indicated for all patients with flash stoma, but abdominal characteristics and muscle tone must be considered.
　　③A long-term follow-up is needed to manage the change of stoma or peristomal plane characteristics accompanying the patien't weight loss or gain.