Beyond the pouch: co-designing a temporary pouch-free solution with intestinal ostomates : a mixed-methods study mapping the needs, wishes, and lived experiences of intestinal ostomates

Despite significant innovation in pouch-based systems, many ostomates report ongoing physical, psychological, and social challenges that impact quality of life. Therefore, this thesis explores the feasibility of temporary pouch-free periods. These pouch-free periods are defined as controlled intervals during which individuals with an intestinal stoma, manage waste output without continuous use of a pouch. Pouch-free periods are not intended to replace traditional pouching systems, but rather aims to offer greater flexibility and autonomy in context based situations. To investigate this under explored topic, a mixed-methods approach is employed, combining a literature review, a questionnaire, and co-design sessions. Through this method, key user needs and requirements are discovered, validated and built upon. The outcomes are used in the development of an early-stage product concept. Furthermore, the results underscore the value of user involvement in the development of medical devices and highlight the potential of pouch-free options to complement existing care. This research contributes to the growing field of human centred design in healthcare by proposing future-oriented directions in ostomy innovation not bounded by typical pouch use.