Why Choose Adapt™ Flextend™ Barrier Rings

These barrier rings solve one of the most common ostomy challenges: creating a leakproof seal on uneven, creased, or irregular peristomal skin. The Flextend™ extended-wear hydrocolloid formula provides superior erosion resistance compared to standard hydrocolloid rings, maintaining its protective seal even under high-moisture conditions from liquid output or perspiration. The moldable, stretchable design adapts to any body contour, stoma shape, or skin irregularity—working with any manufacturer's pouching system to enhance seal security and extend wear time.

Key Features & Benefits

Flextend™ Extended-Wear Hydrocolloid:

• Erosion-resistant formula maintains seal integrity longer than standard hydrocolloid rings
• Withstands moisture from liquid ileostomy output, perspiration, or bathing
• Reduces frequency of barrier ring replacements
• Provides 3-7 day wear time in most applications
• Same proven technology used in Hollister's extended-wear skin barriers

2" (51mm) Width, 4.5mm Thickness:

• Standard thickness appropriate for most peristomal applications
• 2" width provides adequate coverage for typical gap-filling and contouring needs
• Not too thick (which can create bulk) or too thin (which may not fill adequately)
• Versatile sizing suitable for colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy users

Moldable and Stretchable:

• Easily shaped by hand to conform to any stoma shape (round, oval, irregular)
• Stretches gently to accommodate body movement without tearing or separating
• Can be stacked or layered for deeper gaps or more severe irregularities
• Warms with body heat to become more pliable and conforming

Universal Compatibility:

• Works with ALL ostomy pouching systems regardless of manufacturer
• Compatible with both flat and convex skin barriers
• Can be used with one-piece or two-piece systems
• Enhances seal for any brand of barrier or pouch

Easy Removal, Minimal Residue:

• Removes cleanly without leaving stubborn adhesive residue
• Gentler on peristomal skin than some competitive barrier rings
• Simplifies barrier change routine

Latex-Free Construction:

• Safe for latex-sensitive ostomates
• Skin-friendly formulation dermatologically tested

Clinical Applications

Ideal For:

Uneven or Creased Peristomal Skin:

• Fills creases, folds, or wrinkles around the stoma that prevent flat barrier adhesion
• Creates smooth, level surface for better barrier contact
• Particularly helpful for users with abdominal folds, surgical scars, or loose skin

Shallow or Flush Stomas:

• Builds up the area around a flush stoma to create better protrusion
• Can be used instead of or in addition to convex barriers for mild flush situations
• Helps prevent output from tracking under the barrier

Irregular Stoma Shapes:

• Molds around oval, D-shaped, or irregularly-shaped stomas
• Fills gaps between a round barrier opening and non-round stoma
• Provides custom contouring without cutting or trimming

High-Output or Liquid Output:

• Flextend™ formula resists erosion from frequent liquid ileostomy output
• Maintains seal integrity despite constant moisture exposure
• Reduces risk of barrier undermining and premature failure

Skin Protection:

• Creates protective barrier between stoma output and peristomal skin
• Helps prevent contact dermatitis and skin breakdown
• Particularly beneficial for users with sensitive or compromised skin

Enhanced Security:

• Adds extra seal security for active users, athletes, or those with physically demanding jobs
• Provides peace of mind during swimming, showering, or intimate activities
• Reduces anxiety about leakage during daily activities

Understanding Barrier Ring Technology

What Are Barrier Rings? Barrier rings (also called seals, washers, or ring seals) are moldable hydrocolloid accessories that create a smooth, protected seal between the stoma and skin barrier. They serve multiple functions:

Gap Filling: Fill uneven areas, creases, or depressions around the stoma where barriers can't make full contact.

Contouring: Create a smooth, level surface on irregular peristomal topography for better barrier adhesion.

Skin Protection: Form a protective barrier between stoma output and vulnerable peristomal skin, preventing chemical irritation.

Seal Enhancement: Add extra security to the barrier-skin interface, reducing risk of leakage and undermining.

Wear Time Extension: Help barriers stay adhered longer by preventing moisture infiltration at barrier edges.

Flextend™ vs. Standard Hydrocolloid

Flextend™ Extended-Wear Formula:

• Superior moisture resistance
• Better erosion resistance with liquid output
• Longer wear time (3-7 days typical)
• Maintains integrity under challenging conditions
• Ideal for ileostomy or high-output situations

Standard Hydrocolloid:

• Basic moisture management
• Adequate for formed output
• Shorter wear time (1-3 days typical)
• May erode faster with liquid output
• More economical for less demanding applications

For users experiencing frequent barrier ring breakdown or shortened wear time, Flextend™ formula provides measurable improvement.

4.5mm Standard Thickness Context

Standard 4.5mm Thickness:

• Appropriate for mild to moderate peristomal irregularities
• Provides adequate gap-filling without excessive bulk
• Most commonly used thickness across ostomy care
• Comfortable under clothing

When You Might Need Different Thickness:

• Thinner rings (2-3mm): Minor irregularities, prefer minimal bulk, sensitive to pressure
• Thicker rings (6-8mm): Deep creases, severely retracted stomas, significant contouring needs

If 4.5mm feels too thick or doesn't provide enough fill, consult your ostomy nurse about alternative thickness options.

Usage & Application

Basic Application:

1. Cleanse and thoroughly dry peristomal skin (no lotions, oils, or moisture)
2. Remove barrier ring from package and warm between hands for 15-30 seconds to increase pliability
3. Gently stretch and mold the ring to match your stoma shape and peristomal contour
4. Center the ring around the stoma, pressing gently to adhere to skin
5. Ensure ring sits smoothly without gaps or wrinkles
6. Apply your skin barrier directly over the ring, pressing firmly for 30-60 seconds
7. Attach pouch per your normal routine

Advanced Techniques:

Stacking Rings:

• For deeper gaps or severe irregularities, use two rings stacked together
• Apply first ring to skin, then second ring on top before applying barrier
• Provides up to 9mm of fill depth

Partial Ring Use:

• Cut ring in half or quarters to fill specific problem areas only
• Use sections to address localized creases or folds
• More economical when full ring isn't needed

Stretching for Oval Stomas:

• Gently stretch ring into oval or elongated shape to match stoma contour
• Provides better fit than forcing round ring around oval stoma

Layering with Paste:

• Can be combined with ostomy paste for maximum skin protection
• Apply paste first, allow to dry, then apply barrier ring

Ring Replacement Schedule:

• Replace ring with each barrier change
• Do not reuse barrier rings—single use only for hygiene and effectiveness

Packaging Options

Available in two convenient formats:

Single Ring (Each):

• Individually wrapped
• Perfect for sampling or trying before bulk purchase
• Convenient for travel or keeping backup supplies
• Lower initial cost

Box of 10:

• Approximately 2-4 weeks supply (depending on barrier change frequency)
• More economical per-ring cost
• Reduces reordering frequency
• Better for established users who know this product works for them

Product Specifications

• Type: Moldable hydrocolloid barrier ring
• Width: 2" (51mm)
• Thickness: 4.5mm (standard)
• Material: Flextend™ extended-wear hydrocolloid
• Inner Opening: Moldable (stretches to fit stoma)
• Compatibility: Universal—works with all ostomy pouching systems
• Latex Status: Latex-free
• Sterility: Non-sterile (external use only)
• Wear Time: 3-7 days typical (replace with barrier changes)
• Packaging: Single (each) or Box of 10
• Manufacturer: Hollister Incorporated
• Product Line: Adapt™ Flextend™