A pilot study assessing the effectiveness of a glycerin suppository in controlled colostomy emptying.
The focus of this research was to explore another way for the patient to manage their colostomy. It was hoped that by inserting a glycerin suppository into the colostomy one would be able to evacuate the lower large intestine more effectively and efficiently.


OBJECTIVE
To determine if persons with a sigmoid colostomy could obtain fecal continence by instituting a daily self-administered bowel-stimulating suppository.


METHODS
Randomized crossover comparative study comparing usual ostomy emptying practice with emptying with a glycerine suppository to stimulate controlled emptying.


METHODS
Adult males and females with a sigmoid colostomy were studied in their homes.


METHODS
The instruments included a profile questionnaire, a take-home diary, crossover and end-of-study questionnaires, and an exit questionnaire.


METHODS
Subjects were randomized to their usual pouching method or to the experimental suppository method for 14 days each.


RESULTS
There was no difference in fecal output, fecal volume, or flatus between the 2 groups. The action of the suppository was affected by its failure to remain in the bowel for an adequate amount of time.


CONCLUSIONS
Further research is needed to determine if an adjunct device/method to hold the suppository in place would produce successful results.
McClees
Nancy
N
ConvaTec, A Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Westerville, Ohio 43082, USA. nancy.mcclees@bms.com
Mikolaj
Eda L
EL
Carlson
Sharon L
SL
Pryor-McCann
Joan
J
D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D012809:Colon, Sigmoid; D003125:Colostomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000523:psychology; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D005243:Feces; D005260:Female; D005414:Flatulence / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D005990:Glycerol / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010528:Peristalsis / Q000187:drug effects; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology; D013488:Suppositories; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology; D013997:Time Factors; D017211:Treatment Failure
D013488:Suppositories; D005990:Glycerol