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Urostomy bag

(458 products available)

About urostomy bag

Types of urostomy bags

Urostomy bags are urinary collecting pouches that help patients who have undergone a urostomy procedure, a surgery that creates an opening in the abdomen for urine excretion. There are several types of urostomy bags, and each has unique characteristics.

They include the following:

  • One-piece urostomy bags

    These consist of a bag and skin barrier integrated system. This means that the contents can only be removed because the barrier is stuck to the skin. In many cases, the one-piece is convenient, as it is easier to fit and has fewer components. For this reason, they are preferred by patients who like to disposably and easily wear their apparatus.

  • Two-piece urostomy bags

    As the name suggests, the two-piece urostomy bag uses a separate skin barrier and pouch. The skin barrier can be fixed and afterward, the pouch swapped out without having to touch the barrier. This feature makes two-piece systems very flexible, as they allow for quick pouch changes without having to reseal the barrier on the skin. It is, therefore, very appropriate for those who wish to reuse the barrier due to its durability.

  • Drainable urostomy bags

    Drainable urostomy bags, as their name suggests, have an outlet at the bottom that can be closed and opened by a clamp or a hook. Such bags are very useful to individuals with high urine volume, as they can be drained and reused throughout the day. They are also convenient to use while traveling or overnight when one doesn't want to change the bag often.

  • Non-drainable urostomy bags

    Also known as disposable bags, these are designed because the user needs to be able to change the bag often. These bags have no outlet and are designed for a single use, which means they will be thrown away after being used once. They are ideal for users who have low urine volume and want the convenience of a fresh bag throughout the day. These kinds of bags are also preferred by those who can manage their changes easily and discreetly.

  • Night urostomy bags

    Night urostomy bags, also called leg bags, are larger-capacity bags worn at night as the user sleeps. They are intended to be connected to a catheter and will hold more urine than daytime bags. They are comfortable to use at night since they minimize the frequency of urination and, therefore, the need to wake up. Additionally, these bags have systems that prevent urine from flowing backward to the bladder or catheter.

Materials & Durability of urostomy bags

The materials used to manufacture urostomy bags are very crucial in deciding how long they last and how practical they are for the user. These bags are made from different materials, each with unique characteristics. For instance, some materials are more comfortable, while others have advantages in terms strength and waterproofing.

  • Vinyl (PVC)

    Vinyl is strong and flexible, making it very comfortable to wear regularly. Users do not need to change them very frequently as they have good waterproof qualities.However, PVC may not be as breathable as other materials. This will mean that, at times, users may feel discomfort due to heat and moisture that accumulates within the bag.

  • polyethylene bags

    Polyethylene, another common type of fabric used for ostomy bags, is thin and lightweight. This material is helpful for those who want to look discreet and not draw attention to themselves. In addition, these bags are durable enough to stand everyday wear and tear. However, they may not be as robust or waterproof as other types of fabrics, often requiring more frequent changes.

  • rubber (Latex)

    Latex bags are very elastic and provide a snug fit in case the body of the user changes shape often. It is very durable, but some users may feel discomfort with it, especially if they are allergic to latex. Also, rubber bags can be a breathable option. However, they may need to be replaced frequently if they are subjected to exposure to very harsh chemicals.

  • Film-based materials

    Film-based materials, including Coated paper scraps and films, are often employed as liners. These materials are waterproof and provide some measure of absorption. Therefore, they help control odors and keep moisture in check. These materials are very thin and, therefore, very discreet when worn under clothing. Though durable, these materials may not be very comfortable as they lack flexibility.

Scenarios for urostomy bags

  • Medical conditions

    Some medical conditions affecting the urinary system may necessitate the need for a urostomy bag. People suffering from bladder cancer, for instance, might have to remove the bladder altogether, leaving them with no option but to use a urostomy bag to expel urine. Other situations that may require the use of these bags are lasting conditions such as spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis that damage the nerves controlling the bladder. These conditions may lead to incontinence or inability to urinate, and, therefore, a urostomy bag and a urostomy may be necessary.

  • Birth defects

    Congenital anomalies affecting the urinary tract may also result in the need for urostomy bags. For instance, kids born with bladder exstrophy, a condition in which the bladder is exposed outside the body, will need a urostomy bag. Another birth defect,hypospadias, which is a situation where the urethra does not develop normally, might mean a urostomy bag becomes necessary as the child grows up.

  • Trauma or injury

    In some situations, severe injuries to the abdomen or pelvic area may also damage the bladder or other parts of the urinary tract. People who suffer from such injuries may be fitted with a urostomy temporarily or even permanently, depending on the extent of the damage. For instance, anyone suffering from a penetrating abdominal injury may undergo a urostomy as a way of diverting urine while healing occurs.

  • Infections

    Chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs) can sometimes cause so much damage to the urinary system that a urostomy becomes necessary. Repeated infections, for instance, could scar the bladder and urethra, leading to narrowing or fistula formation, abnormal connections between organs. This situation may, therefore, require a urostomy bag to enable urine diversion while doctors treat the infections and repair the damage.

  • Surgical procedures

    Some surgical procedures involving the urinary tract may necessitate the temporary or permanent need for a urostomy bag. Such operations may be reconstructive bladder surgeries or creating a new pathway for urine to expel from the body. During the healing period, a urostomy bag is used to divert urine and enable the surgical site to recover fully.

How to Choose the urostomy bag

  • Type of ostomy

    Choosing a urostomy bag always begins with the kind of ostomy the patient has undergone. For instance, an ileal conduit urostomy will require an ostomy bag specifically made for this type of diversion. People who have undergone more complex ostomy procedures may require specialist bags that have unique features like added security or high-capacity durability. Understanding the type of ostomy will help healthcare providers decide on the right kind of bag for their convenience.

  • Bag capacity

    Urostomy bags are manufactured in different capacities and can be either daytime or night-time varieties. Low-capacity bags are ideal for activities during the day when people can easily empty them, while high-capacity bags are most suitable for night-time use when people prefer not to wake up frequently to empty the bag. Moreover, users who eat foods that increase urine output may benefit from using a high-capacity bag, such as those made with sorghum, maize, or nerica rice.

  • Flange size

    The flange size is the component of the urostomy bag that is attached to the skin around the stoma. These come in standard and specialty varieties and are preferred based on the patient’s requirements. Those who have enlarged stomas or skin folds, for instance, may need a larger-flange bag, while a small-flange bag will suffice for users with a smaller stoma. Additionally, patients who have undergone other surgeries that cause their bodies to change shape frequently may require a bag with an adjustable flange.

  • Skin protection features

    Urostomy bags have various features intended to protect the skin around the stoma from harmful urine effects. Some bags come with specialized adhesives that protect the bag from irritating exposure to urine. Other bags also come with built-in absorption liners that serve to soak up leaking urine and keep it away from contact with the skin. Additionally, ostomy bags include anti-inflammatory and healing oils that reduce inflammation and help heal any open sore on the skin.

  • Level of activity

    A person’s level of activity can substantially impact the kind of urostomy bag they need. Those who lead active lifestyles and engage in physical activities regularly, for instance, may require durable bags that have comfort, security, and tear resistance. Others who are less active and spend much of their time indoors may opt for lighter and less obtrusive bags.

Q&A

Q. How do urostomy bags control odor?

Urostomy bags have several features that help keep them smelling fresh and manageable. Most of these bags contain odor-control filters that absorb bad smells and are released into the air. Other situations may also have chemicals or carbon lining in the bag that neutralizes urine odor. Additionally, some bags have closeable valves that prevent urine from flowing back and producing unpleasant smells.

Q. How often should a urostomy bag be changed?

The frequency with which a urostomy bag should be changed depends on some factors, like the type of bag used, the person’s activity level, and personal preferences. A drainable urostomy bag can be worn continuously throughout the day as long it is emptied frequently. Users may change it once a day. But they may need to empty it several times a day. A non-drainable urostomy bag is designed to be more temporarily worn and will be changed more frequently, typically 1-4 times a day. Some people may need more changes than this, depending on lifestyle factors, such as diet or level of exercise.

Q. Can people with urostomy bags swim or bathe?

People with urostomy bags can swim and bathe while taking the necessary precautions to keep their bags secure and functional. Wearing a waterproof cover over the urostomy bag during swimming is advisable, as this will prevent the bag from being damaged. Bathing is also possible, especially taking showers where the bag can be protected by a special pouch cover. In warm water, people like to use a protective barrier between them and the water.

Q. How are urostomy bags disposed of properly?

Correct disposal of urostomy bags is essential for both hygiene and environmental considerations. For non-drainable bags, the first step is to seal the bag to contain any urine that may spill out during disposal. Next, using toilet paper or the bag’s built-in wipes, wipe away any remaining urine or feces. The bag should be placed in a plastic, biodegradable, or barrel composting bag to reduce its impact on landfills.