This thread is an outgrowth from one I started on general discussion forum, with some links for sources on PEG care, etc.
Showing the flannel pads here, it was not meant to infer that some sort of pad needs to be used for everyone. Just that, for those who are having a good bit of seepage, there is an alternative to the gauze squares. The flannel is more absorbent, so it keeps the site drier (which is important healthwise) and, of course replaces one more piece of medicinal in appearance paraphernalia we find ourselves surrounded by. I think they also would be useful for when its hot, keeping a barrier between sweaty skin, and plastic disc (It doesn't look like I'll be using them for this purpose anytime soon. As I type this, the snow is falling like crazy. I'm looking out on the deck, and there's a few inches of white stuff covering it!)
For those who read a thread started by me a few months ago, the subject the importance of correct FVC testing, I wrote there how one of the things that had made me drag my feet over having the PEG placed, was the prospect of the site never entirely healing. Because, that was what I thought it had to be like... that everyone with a PEG always had some drainage, crusting, blood, etc. Several people took the time to reassure me that the PEG site can actually completely heal up, that it doesn't have to be like that. Tom (Tmasters) even generously offered to post a pic of his for our viewing pleasure.
After I got my PEG, I did run into complications, I developed an infection, spent more than a month on antibiotics. Therefore, when the infection cleared, and I started with the granulation tissue ordeal, I was determined that somehow, I'd really get past this, and get mine to look as good as Tmasters does (( 8) ))
I've had good luck using the miracle mist to treat the granulation, very minimal crusting at only one place now, and, for me, using the pad under it, even though its currently not soaking up that much, it allows more air circulation, It also helps to keep it more stable, and the less wiggle, the less irritation, helping to break the cycle of triggering more granulation formation.
I actually think my bumper needs tightened up, but right now I'm so happy to not need to be seen by the doctor, that I'll let it be. A few days after surgery the visiting nurse loosened it, then a couple of weeks later the doctor tightened it back up, and now the bumper has loosened on its own again. They told me to keep note of where the bumper was in relation to the numbering on the tube itself, that this was the way to know if it is slipping, and mine has moved half the distance to the next number again.