Preventing Stomal Stenosis in MACE and Mitrofanoff Patients
For patients who suffer from fecal or urinary incontinence, doctors may recommend a MACE or Mitrofanoff procedure to manage the condition and improve the patient’s quality of life.
A MACE, or Malone antegrade continence enema, procedure involves using the appendix to create a continent catheterizable stoma to flush the colon and empty the bowels. It is highly successful at resolving constipation and fecal incontinence and can restore normal bowel function.
For patients with bladder management issues, a Mitrofanoff procedure create a channel, using the appendix, that allows the bladder to be emptied through a stoma in the abdomen. The Mitrofanoff procedure is an option for patients with spinal cord injuries or spina bifida who have difficulty self-catheterizing.
Both procedures are often life-changing, helping to improve quality of life and allowing patients to independently catheterize themselves. However, they can have complications, including stomal stenosis.
What is Stomal Stenosis?
Stomal stenosis in lay terms means the natural closing of the site where the catheter or cleaning device is to be inserted. When stoma stenosis occurs, it can become difficult for the catheter or irrigation device to pass through. It is estimated that 12% to 45% of MACE and Mitrofanoff patients experience stomal stenosis following the creation of the MACE or Mitrofanoff stoma.
Preventing Stomal Stenosis
Stomal stenosis is a frustrating complication but can often be prevented. Many MACE and Mitrofanoff patients leave a firm plastic catheter or stent in the stoma for a prolonged period to prevent their stoma from closing, however this is not the most optimal solution.
The Stoma Stopper™ is designed as a more comfortable solution in preventing leakage, and reducing stomal stenosis. Our soft, medical grade silicone is pliable, and can be cut to be the perfect length. The low-profile tab lies flat against the skin and is virtually undetectable under clothing. Available FR sizes are 8, 10, 12 and 14.
Many doctors recommend that MACE and Mitrofanoff patients use an ACE Stopper, like the Stoma Stopper, for at least 6 months after the initial surgery to prevent the stoma from healing shut. The Stoma Stopper should be worn at all times when not being catheterized and can be kept in place with a hydrocolloid dressing.
Many MACE and Mitrofanoff patients prefer using the Stoma Stopper instead of a catheter to prevent stomal stenosis. Stoma Stoppers can be used for up to 30 days and are to be washed with warm water and soap between insertions.
At EZ-Series, it’s our goal to help improve the quality of life for anyone with a continent catheterizable stoma. The Stoma Stopper is a “must-have” for everyday stoma care. If you are a MACE or Mitrofanoff patient or caregiver and are looking to prevent stomal stenosis or suffer from recurrent stomal stenosis, please request a sample today!
