Putting the “S” in SNAP: Skin Protection
In the world of wound care, few tasks are as complex—or as meaningful—as caring for patients with enteric fistulas. Each day, clinicians step up with incredible dedication, skill, and compassion in protecting skin from effluent, fighting infection, and promoting healing. Their work may not always make headlines, but it changes lives.
One of the most important—and sometimes underappreciated—ways to make a difference? Protecting the skin from effluent.
Why Skin Protection Matters
The effluent from a small bowel fistula or high-output stoma is filled with potent digestive enzymes. When it comes into contact with healthy skin, damage can occur in a matter of hours—causing pain, infection risk, and dressing failure.
Our clinical heroes know that protecting periwound skin isn’t just about comfort—it’s critical for healing and successful containment. That’s why Skin Protection is the first “S” in the SNAP approach to fistula management (Skin and Sepsis, Nutrition, Anatomy, and Plan).
A Hero’s Tool: The Wound Crown
One of the most effective tools available for protecting skin is the Wound Crown—developed by Fistula Solution with feedback from clinicians in the field.
This flexible, clinician-tested device is designed specifically for high-output enteric fistulas and stomas. It helps manage effluent more effectively and supports long-term skin integrity.
Key features include:
- A 1.5-inch center opening ideal for small bowel fistulas, ileostomies, or surgical drains
- A flexible base that can be trimmed to fit unique anatomy
- Optional skirt cuts for improved isolation and drainage
- Compatibility with surgical drapes, barrier rings, and pouching systems
By directing output away from fragile skin, the Wound Crown strengthens the dressing system and helps create the healing environment every patient deserves.
See it in action: Watch how the Wound Crown protects periwound skin
Best Practices for Skin Protection
Outstanding care begins with great technique. Whether you’re a new clinician or a seasoned expert, small refinements in your process can lead to better results.
Need a guide?
Download our free Dressing Change Checklist (PDF)
It’s a step-by-step walkthrough to help you get consistent, reliable results.
Final Thoughts: Small Steps, Big Impact
Protecting periwound skin may seem like a small piece of the puzzle—but for fistula patients, it makes a world of difference. With the right tools, sound technique, and your expert care, healing becomes possible.
To all the nurses, wound specialists, APPs, surgeons, and caregivers: you are the heroes of fistula care. We’re proud to support your mission with solutions that help you do what you do best—care deeply, act boldly, and heal skillfully.
Need Support or Supplies?
Not sure if your clinic or hospital carries Fistula Solution products? We’re happy to help you get what you need.
Contact us to get started
Let’s work together to give every patient the protection they deserve.