Statistically significant improvement in peristomal skin condition due to adhesive breakdown prevention by novel barrier ring with assisted flow

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Background: The high incidence rate of peristomal skin complications (PSCs) indicates that current ostomy products are not meeting the needs of ostomates. Aims: To assess how switching to a novel barrier ring affects the peristomal skin health of people with an ileostomy and the usability of the novel barrier ring. Methods: Participants (aged ≥18 years) with an ileostomy for 3 months or more wore a novel barrier ring with their typical ostomy appliances for a duration of 4 weeks. The Ostomy Skin Tool (OST) was used by trained nurses to assess skin condition at time T=0 and time T=4 weeks. The participants' experience with using the novel barrier ring was also evaluated, using a questionnaire at time T=4 weeks. Findings: Among 19 participants, switching to the novel barrier ring resulted in a statistically significant improvement in peristomal skin health. The average OST score started at 6.21±3.63 (SD) at time T=0 and decreased to 3.63±3.56 at time T=4 weeks (p<0.001; Cohen's D=1.09). Conclusion: The novel barrier ring assessed shows high potential to improve peristomal skin health, even for patients who already use market-standard seals. High scores were received for usability and comfort, and the potential of the novel barrier ring to reduce leaks and increase longevity of ostomy systems was realised.