Why Durahesive Swelling Hydrocolloid with Convexity

Flush or retracted stomas create dual challenges: inadequate protrusion above skin level and irregular peristomal contours that allow output seepage under barriers. Standard flat barriers struggle to maintain seals on these challenging anatomies, leading to frequent leaks and skin breakdown. The CONVEX-IT design applies gentle outward pressure to bring the stoma forward and fill skin irregularities, while Durahesive hydrocolloid offers a unique swelling property—when exposed to moisture or output, it expands to fill microscopic gaps and create an increasingly secure seal over time. This "turtlenecking" effect continuously adapts to the stoma throughout wear, maintaining protection even as output contacts the barrier edge. For users with flush or retracted stomas who experience frequent premature barrier failures, the combination of convexity and swelling hydrocolloid transforms an unstable, leak-prone situation into reliable extended-wear protection.

Key Features

• CONVEX-IT design: gentle outward pressure for flush or retracted stomas
• Durahesive swelling hydrocolloid: expands on contact with output to seal gaps
• Extended-wear formulation: supports longer wear times than standard barriers
• Pre-sized 1-1/2″ (38 mm) opening: fast, consistent placement—no cutting required
• 2-1/4″ (57 mm) flange: compatible with ConvaTec SUR-FIT two-piece pouches
• Low-profile white wafer: discreet fit under clothing
• Belt tabs included: optional belt attachment for extra security
• Two-piece design: change pouches without removing barrier
• Latex-free construction: safe for latex-sensitive users
• Box of 10: economical supply for extended-wear users

Benefits

• Minimizes undermining and leaks on uneven abdomens or challenging stomas
• Swelling hydrocolloid continuously adapts to maintain seal during wear
• Extends wear time with erosion-resistant extended-wear formulation
• Eliminates measuring and cutting with pre-sized opening
• Protects peristomal skin by preventing effluent contact
• Two-piece convenience allows pouch changes without barrier removal
• Belt tab option provides additional security during activity

Clinical Applications

✓ Flush stomas: ideal for stomas even with abdominal surface
✓ Retracted stomas: gentle pressure brings stoma forward for better seal
✓ Skin folds or creases: convexity compensates for irregular peristomal areas
✓ Extended wear goals: 5-7+ day barrier wear with swelling hydrocolloid
✓ Colostomy care: secure drainage for formed to semi-formed output
✓ Ileostomy care: erosion resistance for liquid to paste consistency output
✓ Previous leak issues: solution for users struggling with flat barriers
✓ 1-1/2″ stoma size: perfect fit for users with 38 mm stomas

Usage & Application

For individuals with colostomies or ileostomies featuring flush or retracted stomas with 1-1/2″ (38 mm) dimensions who require convex support and extended wear capability.

Determining if you need convexity: Consult with your ostomy nurse or healthcare provider. CONVEX-IT convexity is typically recommended when:

• Your stoma sits at or below skin level (flush or retracted)
• You experience frequent leaks with flat barriers
• You have deep skin folds or creases around the stoma
• Standard flat barriers don't maintain adequate seal
• Your stoma is situated in an abdominal crease or fold

Verifying fit: Before ordering, measure your stoma to confirm it matches the 1-1/2″ (38 mm) pre-sized opening. The opening should provide approximately 1/8″ clearance around your stoma.

To apply:

1. Cleanse the peristomal skin with warm water and pat completely dry
2. Verify the pre-sized 1-1/2″ opening matches your stoma size
3. Remove the backing paper from the Durahesive wafer
4. Warm the wafer between your hands for 60-90 seconds to improve adhesion and make it more pliable
5. Center the pre-sized opening over your stoma—ensure the stoma fits comfortably through the opening
6. Apply gentle, firm pressure to the convex area, pressing the wafer against your abdomen—the CONVEX-IT shape should make good contact with the peristomal skin
7. Press outward from the stoma to eliminate air pockets and ensure complete adhesion
8. Hold pressure for 30-60 seconds, paying special attention to the convex area
9. Optional: Attach belt to belt tabs for additional security during physical activity
10. Attach your compatible ConvaTec SUR-FIT two-piece pouch to the 2-1/4″ flange

Understanding the swelling effect: As you wear the Durahesive wafer and it contacts moisture or output, you may notice the hydrocolloid begins to swell and "turtleneck" around the stoma. This is normal and beneficial—the swelling creates an increasingly secure seal. The barrier may darken or appear slightly raised near the stoma opening as swelling occurs.

Wear time: Durahesive extended-wear barriers typically support 5-7+ days of wear, depending on individual output characteristics and activity level. Change when you notice:

• Barrier erosion reaching close to the stoma
• Leakage or seepage under the wafer
• Itching, burning, or discomfort
• Loss of adhesion at barrier edges

To change pouches without removing wafer:

1. Gently push down on the wafer while lifting the pouch flange upward to release the coupling
2. The wafer remains in place on your skin
3. Attach a fresh pouch to the 2-1/4″ flange
4. Many users change pouches 1-2 times daily while keeping the barrier in place for 5-7 days

Removal: Gently peel the wafer from top to bottom while supporting your skin. The swollen hydrocolloid may leave some residue—use warm water or adhesive remover to clean.

Important convexity notes:

• CONVEX-IT applies gentle pressure to the peristomal area
• If you experience excessive discomfort, skin blanching (whitening), or marks that don't fade within 30 minutes after removal, consult your ostomy nurse
• You may need a different convexity level or return to a flat barrier
• Never use convex barriers on stomas that protrude well above skin level

Compatibility: Use with any ConvaTec SUR-FIT Natura two-piece pouch featuring a 2-1/4″ (57 mm) flange, including drainable, closed, and urostomy pouches.

Technical Specifications

• System: ConvaTec SUR-FIT Natura two-piece skin barrier (wafer)
• Barrier material: Durahesive extended-wear swelling hydrocolloid
• Convexity: CONVEX-IT design (shallow/standard convex depth)
• Stoma opening: Pre-sized 1-1/2 inches (38 mm)
• Flange size: 2-1/4 inches (57 mm)
• Wear time: Extended wear (5-7+ days typical)
• Color/Finish: White, opaque wafer
• Belt tabs: Included for optional belt attachment
• Profile: Low-profile despite convexity
• Special property: Swelling hydrocolloid expands on contact with moisture/output
• Compatibility: All ConvaTec SUR-FIT Natura two-piece pouches with 57 mm flange
• Quantity: 10 barriers per box (10/bx)
• Brand/Line: ConvaTec SUR-FIT Natura
• Latex status: Not made with natural rubber latex
• Sterility: Sterile, single-patient use