The Ostomy Skin Tool 2.0: a new instrument for assessing peristomal skin changes

Abstract

Background: Peristomal skin complications (PSCs) are frequently reported postoperative complications. PSCs can present visibly or as symptoms such as pain, itching or burning sensations.

Aim: To develop a new tool that can capture a range of sensation symptoms together with visible complications and an objective assessment of discolouration in the peristomal area.

Method: Consensus from qualitative interviews with health professionals and people with an ostomy, and input from expert panels, formed the basis of a patient-reported outcome (PRO) questionnaire. A decision tree model was used to define a combined score including PRO and objectively assessed discolouration area.

Findings: Six elements were included in the PRO questionnaire and four health states representing different severity levels of the peristomal skin were defined.

Conclusion: The Ostomy Skin Tool 2.0 is a sensitive tool that can be used to follow changes in the peristomal skin on a regular basis and thereby help prevent severe PSCs.

Keywords: Ostomy Life Study; Ostomy Skin Tool (OST); Peristomal skin complications; Sensation symptoms; Skin discolouration.