Solid state karaya gum ring for use in disposable and permanent ileostomy appliances

Abstract A solid state of karaya gum powder, long used for skin care in ileostomy, has been fashioned into a flat ring and used in a disposable ileostomy appliance or in conjunction with permanent appliances. The ring is self adherent and at the same time provides the well known healing properties of karaya powder. The disposable appliance used immediately after surgery has prevented postoperative skin problems and has allowed patients to become accustomed to an appliance almost immediately. The karaya ring itself may be used with a permanent appliance in place of adhesive and is especially helpful for those patients with an allergy to adhesive or solvents or with an uneven or scarred peristomal skin surface.