Patient and WOC Nurse Assessment of a Novel Continence Control Device* (CCD): Stoma Management, Quality of Life and Productivity

Clinical problem: Patients with a colostomy often have concerns regarding gas, odor and incontinence. These in turn may have significant impact on productivity and quality of life. The current case series discusses 4 cases that assess the clinical, functional and emotional impact of using a novel CCD in patients with a colostomy.

Past management:  Patients discussed range in age from 41-69, with surgeries within the previous 4-10 years. Past ostomy management involved 2-piece appliances. Patients reported concerns with leakage, odor, noise, unpredictable output, frequent changes and/or emptying of pouches. Two patients had peristomal skin conditions. All expressed emotional issues from inconveniences with appliances; some reported difficulty coping and social withdrawal. All expressed unhappiness with current management and a need for new approaches.

Current clinical approach:  Prospective case studies were collected via WOC nurses who, based on clinical expertise, recommended patients try the new CCD.  The CCD was designed to prevent release of stool yet allow flatus in the stoma to be deodorized and released. Its safety and efficacy for 8 hours of wear has been demonstrated in a 25-patient study.¹

Patient outcomes:  Some patients successfully used the CCD immediately; some benefited from practice time to master the technique. All four patients' outcomes were positive with respect to ease of use, minimizing leakage, noise, odor and peristomal skin issues. Patients reported the device helped them "control" their output, providing them with more freedom and confidence in their professional and personal lives. All patients reported they would continue using the device either exclusively, or in conjunction with other systems.

Conclusions:  Overall, these four cases illustrate the potential benefits associated with the use of CCD as patients reported improvements in their stoma management, productivity and quality of life.

*Vitala™ Continence Control Device, ConvaTec Inc.