Living with an ostomy can feel overwhelming at first. A stoma created during surgery is there to help your body function after illness or injury. But once surgery is over, day-to-day care for the skin around the stoma becomes critical. That area is called peristomal skin, and it is uniquely vulnerable. Without proper care, irritation, breakdown, and infection can follow. The good news is that ostomy wound care focused on skin protection and prevention improves comfort, reduces complications, and supports long-term quality of life.
At the Angeles Wound Care Institute (AWCI) in Bend, Oregon, Dr. Adam Angeles and his team offer specialized wound and ostomy care rooted in evidence and tailored to each patient. Their care helps people avoid unnecessary pain, reduce the risk of skin problems, and feel confident moving forward every day. You can learn more about their ostomy wound care services on the AWCI ostomy wound care page and connect with the clinic through their contact page.
Why Ostomy Wound Care Matters
Ostomy surgery creates an opening on the abdominal wall so waste can exit the body through a pouching system. This often life-saving procedure comes with new care needs. The peristomal skin is frequently exposed to bodily fluids and adhesive products, which makes it prone to irritation. Without proper protection and monitoring, the skin can break down.
Research shows peristomal skin complications (PSCs) are extremely common. A recent study found that the incidence of PSCs ranged from about 36% up to 73% among ostomy patients. These complications include redness, irritation, skin erosion, ulcers, and painful lesions that impact quality of life and overall well-being. Knowing this prevalence underscores why proactive wound care is so important.
Education and Structured Care Reduces Complications
One of the most powerful tools for improving ostomy outcomes is structured education and care planning. Clinical research indicates that patients who receive preoperative and ongoing training in stoma care experience significantly fewer skin problems. In one analysis, patients with structured education had a 9.5 percent complication rate compared to 19.4 percent in those without structured training. This reduction represents nearly half the risk of peristomal skin problems when education and expert guidance are part of the care plan.
This kind of structured approach can make everyday routines safer and more comfortable. Patients who understand how to clean properly, select appropriate skin barriers, and recognize early signs of trouble often have smoother recovery and long-term outcomes.
Comprehensive Assessment Begins Every Care Plan
At AWCI, care begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Clinicians assess the stoma itself, the surrounding skin, and how well existing appliances fit. They also consider general health factors that may influence healing. This careful approach helps identify potential trouble areas before they become real problems.
Some factors that can affect skin health include:
- Skin folds or uneven surfaces around the stoma
- Appliance leakage or poor adhesion
- Sensitive or fragile skin due to other health conditions
- Activities that increase moisture or friction
By identifying these issues early, AWCI clinicians tailor care recommendations to fit each person’s body, lifestyle, and health situation.
Protecting Peristomal Skin Is Essential
The heart of effective ostomy wound care is protecting the peristomal skin. Even small leaks of effluent from the stoma can irritate the skin and invite more significant damage. AWCI specialists emphasize daily skin inspection and proper cleansing techniques that preserve natural skin integrity.
Care teams also help with:
- Choosing the right protective skin barriers and barrier rings
- Applying gentle cleansing and drying routines
- Adjusting pouching systems and adhesives for best fit
- Selecting products that reduce friction and moisture buildup
This preventive approach keeps skin healthier and reduces the cycle of irritation and breakdown.
Prompt Treatment Minimizes Problems
When irritation and minor wounds do appear, fast and precise treatment is key. AWCI clinicians are experienced in treating common peristomal skin issues such as dermatitis, fungal infections, and superficial ulcers. They focus on both healing the visible problem and preventing recurrence.
Their strategies may include:
- Specialized dressings to protect and heal skin
- Barrier creams and films to reduce moisture damage
- Pouching system adjustments to improve fit
- Guidance on reducing triggers for irritation
These treatments help patients avoid more serious issues like infections or repeated leakage that interfere with daily life.
Ongoing Education and Support Empower Patients
Ostomy wound care does not end after a single visit. Patients thrive when they understand their own care needs and feel supported during transitions. AWCI gives patients clear steps to take at home, personalized guidance, and confidence to manage routine care independently.
This kind of support makes a real difference. Patients who feel educated and supported are more likely to:
- Maintain skin integrity over time
- Avoid emergency visits for preventable issues
- Feel confident in social and daily activities
- Adapt to changes that happen over time with their ostomy
Care That Fits Your Life
Life with an ostomy changes over time. What worked in the early post-surgery phase may not be ideal later. The clinicians at AWCI are there to help at every stage, whether you are new to ostomy care or have been managing your stoma for years. Their goal is consistent: healthier skin, fewer complications, and a better day-to-day experience.
Take the Next Step With AWCI
Proper ostomy wound care improves comfort, protects skin health, and supports better quality of life. If you or someone you care for is dealing with skin irritation, leakage concerns, or the emotional stress that often comes with ostomy care, expert help can make all the difference.
Learn more about personalized ostomy wound care at AWCI by visiting their ostomy wound care services page. For appointments and direct support, you can reach out through the AWCI contact page. Your skin matters. Your comfort matters. And the right care makes healing and living with an ostomy easier and more confident every day.
