Philip's Chyme Reinfusion Experience：

When I was provided with the news that I was a perfect candidate for The Insides System. I initially was confused and excited at the same time. It was a confusing time in general for me as the entire experience has been a whirlwind since the emergency procedure.

It was explained clearly and demonstrated from the expert stoma care team of what would happen, how it would impact me and the benefits and challenges that lay ahead. What excited me the most was the this was a new revolutionary piece of kit, and it would help speed up on my weight gain and ultimately give me control of my own body.

It is very difficult to know if the information could have been provided better because it was all such a whirlwind. We all learn and receive information in different ways, the only other thing I could think of is maybe to show a video of a patient using one to completely set the expectations of the patient before it goes ahead. However, for me, I learn by doing - the main part was that this will keep my bowel active, and I can take nutrients from what I eat which will speed up my recovery.

In the 2 to 3 months of using it, I have found some challenges. The main ones include changing the stoma bag, cleaning the area around the stoma and tube, and keeping the pump itself clear of any blockages. But, after several changes of pouch and pump, I was able to do it without taking too long at all. I think on the second point, there can be a way of developing a netting to ensure this does not prevent patients struggling to pump their liquid but ultimately, changing it every 3 days and keeping fibrous food to a minimum kept the pump working. A huge issue is the tube coming out and it was the biggest issue that I had to deal with in the beginning. Over time, you learn to keep a hold of it and learn how it works with your body, but it does impact your life at the beginning and when you are active.

Overall, this device, has enabled me to live a normal life with my family. I am home now and while I am not 100% back to normal, this has helped me get back to work and be with my children and partner. The key thing here is the positives far outweigh the challenges because without the device the challenge will be far greater.

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