title: The colostomy plug: a new disposable device for a continent colostomy.
abstract: A new disposable device for colostomy control is described. It is a two-piece system consisting of an adhesive base plate and a disposable colostomy plug, attachable to the plate. The plug is made of a soft, pliable plastic material with open cells, containing a carbon filter which allows flatus to pass odour-free. It is packed and compressed in a water-soluble film, which disintegrates immediately after insertion, allowing the plug to expand and prevent the passage of faeces. The device has been tested in 53 patients. Faecal continence and the passage of flatus without noise or odour was achieved in 90%. The median application period until the plug became obstructed with mucus or faeces was 8 h (range 5-24 h or more), the application period being somewhat longer for patients who used bowel irrigation. Patients not using bowel irrigation applied a colostomy bag during the night.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003125:Colostomy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004209:Disposable Equipment; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013997:Time Factors