The effect of frequency of leakage and a novel digital leakage notification system on sleep in people living with an intestinal stoma

Background: Many people living with a stoma have difficulties with stoma-related sleep problems; however, there is a paucity of research demonstrating solutions or interventions to alleviate these problems. Aims: This study aimed to determine the impact of stoma-leakage on different aspects of sleep; and to investigate whether the use of a digital leakage notification system (Heylo™) for ostomy care could help improve sleep in individuals living with an intestinal stoma. Methods: Data were derived from three sources: a cross-sectional, self-reported questionnaire investigating different health-related aspects of living with a stoma in a large population of those who have a stoma; sub-analyses of sleep outcomes were derived from the findings of two prospective, multi-centre clinical trials evaluating Heylo for ostomy care. Results: A direct association was observed between the frequency of leakage incidents outside the baseplate and more severe sleep complications. Most people having frequent leakage incidents reported that they wake up at night to check their pouching system for leakages. Usage of Heylo was associated with significant improvements to users' reported leakage-related sleep problems and a reduced need to check their pouching system during the night for potential leakages. Conclusions: Individuals who have sleep problems as a result of nighttime leakages and the mental burden of worrying about leakage may benefit from use of Heylo.