Kate’s MiniACE^® Enema Button / Success Stories

My underlying medical condition is Neurogenic Bowel, which has also caused Chronic Constipation. Initially my gastrointestinal doctors wanted to go a full colostomy, but another doctor had a different idea of a cecostomy tube. I originally had the Chait tube, and although the regiments were working, I was continually having leakage issues because the device sizes were not fitting my stoma site well. The Chait tube only comes in a couple sizes and thus you have to just fit into that range versus having a device that properly fits your body. I was always experiencing granulation tissue and leakage, causing me to change bandages at least twice a day.

Doctors wanted to remove the Chait tube, and I said no, there must be another solution. These regiments have saved my life and gave me confidence again. I got on social media and joined support groups and did google searches sometimes until 2-3 am because I just knew something better for me had to be out there. Several said there is a solution, the AMT MiniACE^®; the only issue was I could not find one adult who had one; I took a leap of faith and I e-mailed AMT!

I reached out to parents and asked who in my state places or uses these tubes? I said, what can I lose? I asked my medical team to reach out to the children’s hospital to see if they could refer me. This doctor was happy to help and do it himself. I no longer must wear a bandage; I have such minimal leakage. The doctor who had done the Chait had never heard of the MiniACE^®, so I felt more confident when I learned the doctor who does them regularly agreed to take my case.

I am still recovering from all the granulation tissue growth from the Chait tube. My regiments are better because I have something that fits my body to the exact size, and it is soft! The connection is so much better, too. It locks in with a twist. It stays in place; yes, it is a little bulkier than the Chait, but it fits, and it does not have sharp hard plastic ends. I am thankful for my cecostomy. Without it, I would still be having gastrointestinal issues or have gone through with colostomy. The MiniACE^® cecostomy has given me the confidence to be productive at work and enjoy time with friends, family, and dating again. Like I have told friends and medical professionals, the MiniACE^® helps me feel like I can live an everyday life again. No bandage changes and have a quality of life.