Hernia Research Study
Survey of experiences among ostomists living with a parastomal hernia
Fieldwork, December 2010
INTRODUCTION
Salts Healthcare undertook a major research study in the UK among patients with a parastomal hernia. This report presents the findings and conclusions of that study.
A parastomal hernia is defined as a bulging of peristomal skin, indicating the passage of one or more loops of bowel through a fascial defect around the stoma and into the subcutaneous tissues (Rolstad and Boarini 1996).
The incidence of parastomal hernias among ostomists varies according to stoma type: It has been reported that rates can vary between 4 to 48.1% for end colostomies; Loop colostomies 0 to 30.8%; end ileostomies 1.8 to 28.3%; loop ileostomies 0 to 6.2% (Carne et al 2003).
Another study reported incidence levels across all stoma types is 10 to 50% of patients (Raymond and Abulafi 2002; Williams 2003).
OBJECTIVES
The objectives for the study were to improve understanding of the experiences of patients living with a parastomal hernia – such as leaks, skin condition, changing stoma sizes, and changing product type. Also the length of time between stoma formation and the development of a hernia was examined across stoma types, as well as the incidence of further surgery. Just as important to the study was to examine the ways in which the parastomal hernia affects the patients.
METHODOLOGY
A sample of 1876 patients, all using a support belt or support garment, were sent a letter of invitation to take part, a selfcompletion questionnaire and a reply-paid envelope. 322 questionnaires were returned by patients who had a diagnosed hernia (response rate 17%).
