In the management of stoma stenosis, which action is discouraged?

• A. Increasing liquid intake
• B. Routine stoma dilation
• C. Stool softeners or laxatives
• D. Low residue diet

Answer: (B)

The action being discouraged is routine dilation of a stenosed stoma. Stoma stenosis narrows the stoma opening, which can make waste passage difficult and complicate appliance fit. Repeatedly dilating the stoma as a routine practice can injure the delicate mucosa and surrounding tissue, leading to bleeding, ulcers, fistula formation, or perforation, and can promote more scar tissue and tighter narrowing over time. Therefore, dilation should not be performed routinely and is not a first-line, ongoing management approach. Helpful supportive measures include ensuring good hydration, using stool softeners or laxatives as advised to keep stools soft, and following a low-residue diet to reduce stool volume, while addressing the stenosis through appropriate clinical evaluation—often with appliance adjustments or, if needed, surgical revision.