Issues with Bag Leaks After Rectal Cancer Surgery

I had my surgery for rectal cancer a month ago and am still having problems with the bag leaking. Is this normal?

Hi Tonbell, sorry to hear that you're leaking. You may be experiencing this because your stoma is still shrinking, and you need to size the opening of the bag accordingly. If you're done shrinking, then you need to be a good detective and figure out where the leak is coming from. When you remove your bag and/or barrier ring, where do you see output? That would be an area to perhaps fill with paste. Maybe you can try a different bag or ring. Once your stoma size is stable, it's a matter of getting the right supplies that work for you, and then leaks should be few and far between.

One more thing: does your stoma stick out well? If it's more flush with your skin, you may want to try a convex bag.

No, it's not really normal.

G-Day TonBell,

It's probably a good idea to go see your stoma nurse and have a good chat with her.

Regards, IGGIE

Living with Your Ostomy | Hollister

See a stoma nurse for advice. If that isn't possible, let us know what you're using, and we can try to give suggestions.