RESEARCHERS have demonstrated that a 3D-printed, customisable ostomy bags with sensors and stimulators on stoma nursing significantly reduced skin complications, leakage rates, and wearing time compared to traditional ostomy systems. The study investigated the potential benefits of 3D, customisable ostomy care for patients undergoing colorectal cancer and intestinal obstruction surgeries.
The study aimed to address common issues with traditional ostomy bags, such as skin allergies, inflammation, and leakage, which can greatly impact patient quality of life. The researchers conducted a trial in 113 patients with a resulting stoma after colorectal cancer or intestinal obstruction surgery, to determine if 3D-printed ostomy bags, tailored to the patient’s stoma shape and equipped with sensors, could improve patient outcomes. The team used handheld 3D scanners were to analyse stoma shape, and printed custom ostomy bags with an intelligent device adhered for monitoring and adjustment. Participants were randomised into two groups: the 3D-printed bag group (n=57) and the control group using traditional, commercially available one-piece pouching systems (n=56).
The analysis revealed that there were significantly shorter wearing times in the 3D group (0.7±0.4 minutes) compared to the control group (9.1±3.5 minutes). The leakage rate in the 3D group (1.75%) was also much lower than in the control group (16.1%). Additionally, patients using 3D-printed bags had lower Discoloration, Erosion, and Tissue Overgrowth (DET) score scores, indicating fewer skin complications, and higher acceptance of illness scale scores, suggesting better acceptance of their condition.
This study demonstrates the use of 3D-printed ostomy bags equipped with intelligent systems in patients with stomas, thus presenting a promising advancement in stoma care, particularly in reducing complications and improving patient comfort. Future research should focus on broader clinical adoption and long-term impacts on home care, potentially transforming ostomy management in clinical practice.
Katrina Thornber, EMJ
Reference
Wang J et al. 3D printing and intelligent technology increase convenience, reliability, and patient acceptance of ostomy nursing: a randomised controlled trial. Updates Surg. 2024;DOI:10.1007/s13304-024-01878-4.
