Ostomy and hernia articles
Factors increasing risk of parastomal hernia formation
Parastomal herniation (PSH) is a common complication following stoma surgery and there is a number of factors that may increase the risk of hernia development. To get the full picture of the risk factors associated with the development of a parastomal hernia, it is important to distinguish between patient and surgical variables. This article presents a list of the risk factors in question.
When should you choose a Corsinel Belt or Tube?
In general, it is fair to say that the usage of an ostomy support belt or tube depends on each person’s individual situation and preference. There is no “golden rule” in the choice: It’s entirely up to the user’s needs, challenges and preferences. Most importantly, it has the same great effect, whether the user wears a belt or a tube. We have made a guide to help make the right choice.
Finding the right height of the ostomy garment
Our range of Corsinel ostomy and hernia support garments comprises more heights in the maximum support underwear, belts and tubes, and we are often asked when to recommend what height. In the following we give you our recommendations. To advise about the right height, the below 7 factors should be considered.
Interview with a Stoma Care Nurse
There is no doubt that living with a stoma or a parastomal hernia has a profound impact on a person’s quality of life. Some of the challenges related to stoma and hernia formation can be met by using support and compression belts. It is, however, important that the belts offer functionality for relief and contributes to increased physical activity level, improved cosmetic appearance and reduced psychological stress.
Physical and psychological impacts of an abdominal hernia
One of the main consequences of abdominal surgeries is the risk of subsequent hernia formation. According to the review article “Parastomal Hernia: A Growing Problem with New Solutions” from 2014 a hernia around or next to a stoma develops in up to 78% of patients and typically occurs within 2 years of ostomy creation. It may, however, develop as long as 20 or 30 years after surgery. The article also describes that the British surgeon Goligher[1] even went so far as to claim that some degree of parastomal herniation is inevitable given enough follow-up time[2]. This type of hernia is also known as a parastomal hernia, PSH, and is broadly defined as “an incisional hernia located at or immediately adjacent to a stoma”
Physical and psychological impacts of a stoma
Despite efforts to maintain the intestinal tissue and treat gastrointestinal diseases, a large number of patients undergo ostomy surgery each year. Approximately 700,000 people in the EU, from young children to senior citizens, have an ostomy[1]. Around 40% have a temporary, while 60% have a permant stoma[2]. Living with a stoma has a huge impact on a person’s everyday life – both physically and psychologically.
