Morbidity and complications of protective loop ileostomy

Long-Term Functional Outcome After Early vs. Late Stoma Closure in Rectal Cancer Surgery: Sub-analysis of the Multicenter FORCE Trial

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of early stoma closure on bowel function after low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer.

METHODS

Patients participating in the FORCE trial who underwent LAR with protective stoma were included in this study. Patients were subdivided into an early closure group (< 3 months) and late closure group (> 3 months). Endpoints of this study were the Wexner Incontinence, low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), EORTC QLQ-CR29, and fecal incontinence quality of life (FIQL) scores at 1 year.

RESULTS

Between 2017 and 2020, 38 patients had received a diverting stoma after LAR for rectal cancer and could be included. There was no significant difference in LARS (31 vs. 30, p = 0.63) and Wexner score (6.2 vs. 5.8, p = 0.77) between the early and late closure groups. Time to stoma closure in days was not a predictor for LARS (R2 = 0.001, F (1,36) = 0.049, p = 0.83) or Wexner score (R2 = 0.008, F (1,36) = 0.287, p = 0.60) after restored continuity. There was no significant difference between any of the FIQL domains of lifestyle, coping, depression, and embarrassment. In the EORTC QLQ-29, body image scored higher in the late closure group (21.3 vs. 1.6, p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Timing of stoma closure does not appear to affect long-term bowel function and quality of life, except for body image. To improve functional outcome, attention should be focused on other contributing factors.

Loop Ileostomy Closure as a 23-Hour Stay Procedure With Preoperative Efferent Limb Enteral Stimulation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Loop ileostomy closure is a common procedure in colorectal surgery. Often seen as a simple operation associated with a low complication rate, it still leads to lengthy hospitalizations. Reducing postoperative complications and ileus rates could lead to a shorter length of stay and even ambulatory surgery.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the safety and feasibility of ileostomy closure performed in a 23-hour hospitalization setting using a standardized enhanced recovery pathway.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

SETTINGS

Two high-volume colorectal surgery centers.

PATIENTS

Healthy adults undergoing elective ileostomy closure from July 2019 to January 2022.

INTERVENTION

All patients were enrolled in a standardized enhanced recovery pathway specific to ileostomy closure, including daily irrigation of efferent limb with a nutritional formula for 7 days before surgery. Patients were randomly allocated to either conventional hospitalization (n = 23) or a 23-hour stay (n = 24).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcome was total length of stay and secondary outcomes were 30-day rates of readmission, postoperative ileus, surgical site infections, and postoperative morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 47 patients were ultimately randomly allocated. Patients in the 23-hour hospitalization arm had a shorter median length of stay (1 vs 2 days, p = 0.02) and similar rates of readmission (4% vs 13%, p = 0.35), postoperative ileus (none in both arms), surgical site infection (0% vs 4%, p = 0.49), postoperative morbidity (21% vs 22%, p = 1.00), and mortality (none in both arms).

LIMITATIONS

Due to coronavirus disease 2019, access to surgical beds was greatly limited, leading to a shift toward ambulatory surgery for ileostomy closure. The study was terminated early, which affected its statistical power.

CONCLUSION

Loop ileostomy closures as 23-hour stay procedures are feasible and safe. Ileus rate might be reduced by preoperative intestinal stimulation with nutritional formula through the stoma's efferent limb, although specific randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm this association. See Video Abstract .

CIERRE DE ILEOSTOMA EN ASA COMO PROCEDIMIENTO AMBULATORIO DE HORAS CON ESTMULO PREOPERATORIO ENTERAL EFERENTE ESTUDIO ALEATORIO CONTROLADO

ANTECEDENTES:El cierre de la ileostomía en asa es un procedimiento común en la cirugía colorrectal. A menudo vista como una operación simple asociada con bajas tasas de complicaciones, aún conduce a largas hospitalizaciones. La reducción de las complicaciones postoperatorias y las tasas de íleo podría conducir a una estadía hospitalaria más corta o incluso a una cirugía ambulatoria.OBJETIVOS:El presente estudio pretende evaluar la seguridad y la viabilidad del cierre de ileostomía realizadas en un entorno de hospitalización de 23 horas utilizando una vía de recuperación mejorada y estandarizada.DISEÑO:Estudio aleatorio controladoAJUSTES:Dos centros de cirugía colorrectal de gran volúmenPACIENTES:Adultos sanos sometidos a cierre electivo de ileostomía, desde Julio de 2019 hasta Enero de 2022.INTERVENCIÓN:Todos los pacientes fueron inscritos en una vía de recuperación mejorada y estandarizada específica para el cierre de la ileostomía, incluyendo la irrigación diaria de la extremidad eferente del intestino asociada a una fórmula nutricional durante 7 días previos a la cirugía. Los pacientes fueron asignados aleatoriamente en hospitalización convencional (n = 23) o a una estadía de 23 horas (n = 24).PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:El resultado primario fue la duración total de la estadía hospitalaria y los resultados secundarios fueron las tasas de reingreso a los 30 días, el íleo postoperatorio, las infecciones de la herida quirúrgica, la morbilidad y mortalidad postoperatorias.RESULTADOS:Finalmente fueron randomizados un total de 47 pacientes. Aquellos que se encontraban en el grupo de hospitalización de 23 horas tuvieron una estadía media más corta (1 día versus 2 días, p = 0,02) y tasas similares de reingreso (4% vs 13%, p = 0,35), de íleo postoperatorio (ninguno en ambos brazos), de infección del sitio quirúrgico (0 vs 4%, p = 0,49), de morbilidad postoperatoria (21% vs 22%, p > 0,99) y de mortalidad (ninguna en ambos brazos).LIMITACIONES:Debido a la pandemia SARS CoV-2, el acceso a las camas quirúrgicas fue muy limitado, lo que llevó a un cambio hacia la cirugía ambulatoria para el cierre de ileostomías. El estudio finalizó anticipadamente, lo que afectó su poder estadístico.CONCLUSIÓN:Los cierres de ileostomía en asa como procedimientos de estadía de 23 horas son factibles y seguros. La tasa de íleo podría reducirse mediante la estimulación intestinal preoperatoria a través de la rama eferente del estoma asociada a fórmulas nutricionales, por lo que se necesitan estudios randomizados específicos para confirmar esta asociación. (Traducción-Dr. Xavier Delgadillo ).

Impact of a diverting ileostomy in total mesorectal excision with primary anastomosis for rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

The role of diverting ileostomy in total mesorectal excision (TME) for rectal cancer with primary anastomosis is debated. The aim of this study is to gain insight in the clinical consequences of a diverting ileostomy, with respect to stoma rate at one year and stoma-related morbidity.

METHODS

Patients undergoing TME with primary anastomosis for rectal cancer between 2015 and 2017 in eleven participating hospitals were included. Retrospectively, two groups were compared: patients with or without diverting ileostomy construction during primary surgery. Primary endpoint was stoma rate at one year. Secondary endpoints were severity and rate of anastomotic leakage, overall morbidity rate within thirty days and stoma (reversal) related morbidity.

RESULTS

In 353 out of 595 patients (59.3%) a diverting ileostomy was constructed during primary surgery. Stoma rate at one year was 9.9% in the non-ileostomy group and 18.7% in the ileostomy group (p = 0.003). After correction for confounders, multivariate analysis showed that the construction of a diverting ileostomy during primary surgery was an independent risk factor for stoma at one year (OR 2.563 (95%CI 1.424-4.611), p = 0.002). Anastomotic leakage rate was 17.8% in the non-ileostomy group and 17.2% in the ileostomy group (p = 0.913). Overall 30-days morbidity rate was 37.6% in the non-ileostomy group and 56.1% in the ileostomy group (p < 0.001). Stoma reversal related morbidity rate was 17.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

The stoma rate at one year was higher in patients with ileostomy construction during primary surgery. The incidence and severity of anastomotic leakage were not reduced by construction of an ileostomy. The morbidity related to the presence and reversal of a diverting ileostomy was substantial.

Rectal stimulation with prebiotics and probiotics before ileostomy reversal: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Ileostomy closure is associated with a high rate of postoperative morbidity, and adynamic ileus is the most common complication, with an incidence of up to 32%. This complication is associated with delayed initiation of oral diet intake, abdominal distention, prolonged hospital stay, and more significant patient discomfort. The present study aims to evaluate the rectal stimulus with prebiotics and probiotics before ileostomy reversal.

METHODS

This is a protocol study for an open-label randomized controlled clinical trial. Ethical approval was received (CAAE: 56551722.6.0000.0071). The following criteria will be used for inclusion: adult patients with rectal cancer stages cT3/4Nx or cTxN+ that underwent loop protection ileostomy, patients treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, and patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic total mesorectal excision. Patients will be randomized to one of two groups. The intervention group (with rectal stimulus): the patients will apply 500 ml of saline solution with 6 g of Simbioflora® rectally, once a day, for 15 days before ileostomy closure. The control group (without rectal stimulation): the patients will close the ileostomy with no previous rectal stimulus. The primary outcomes will be the adynamic ileus (need for postoperative nasogastric tube insertion; nausea/vomiting; or intolerance to oral feedings within the first 72 h) and intestinal transit (time to first evacuation/flatus).

RESULTS

The patient's enrollment starts in January 2023. We expect to finish in July 2025.

DISCUSSION

The findings of this randomized clinical study may have important implications for managing patients undergoing ileostomy reversal.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study is registered in the Brazilian Trial Registry (ReBEC) under RBR-366n64w. Registration date: 19/07/2022.

Patient and surgeon preferences for early ileostomy closure following restorative proctectomy for rectal cancer: why aren't we doing it?

BACKGROUND

Early ileostomy closure (EIC), ≤ 2 weeks from creation, is a relatively new practice. Multiple studies have demonstrated that this approach is safe, feasible, and cost-effective. Despite the demonstrated benefits, this is neither routine practice, nor has it been studied, in North America. This study aimed to assess patient and surgeon perspectives about EIC.

METHODS

A mixed-methods, cross-sectional study of patients and surgeons was performed. Rectal cancer survivors from a single institution who underwent restorative proctectomy with diverting loop ileostomy and subsequent closure within the last 5 years were contacted. North American surgeons with high rectal cancer volumes (> 20 cases/year) were included. Surveys (patients) and semi-structured interviews (surgeons) were conducted. Analysis employed descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, respectively.

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients were surveyed (mean age 65.1 ± 11.8 years; 54.2% male). Stoma closure occurred after a median of 7.7 months (IQR 4.8-10.9) and 50.0% (24) found it "difficult" or "very difficult" to live with their stoma. Patients considered improvement in quality of life and quicker return to normal function the most important advantages of EIC, whereas the idea of two operations in two weeks being too taxing on the body was deemed the biggest disadvantage. Most patients (35, 72.9%) would have opted for EIC. Surgeon interviews (15) revealed 4 overarching themes: (1) there are many benefits to EIC; (2) specific patient characteristics would make EIC an appropriate option; (3) many barriers to implementing EIC exist; and (4) many logistical hurdles need to be addressed for successful implementation. Most surgeons (12, 80.0%) would "definitely want to participate" in a North American randomized-controlled trial (RCT) on EIC for rectal cancer patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementing EIC poses many logistical challenges. Both patients and surgeons are interested in further exploring EIC and believe it warrants a North American RCT to motivate a change in practice.

Comparison of postoperative complication rates between a novel endoluminal balloon-assisted drainage and diverting stoma after low rectal cancer

AIM

To introduce a novel endo-luminal balloon-assisted drainage (EBAD) and compare postoperative complication rates between EBAD and diverting stoma (DS) groups.

METHODS

The single center prospective non-random cohort study included a total of 163 patients in convenience patients with rectal cancer between January 2019 and January 2021. Out of 163 patients, 83 underwent DS and 80 EBAD. Primary endpoints were postoperative complication rate.

RESULTS

The total number of complications was 28 in the DS group vs. 22 in the EBAD group (P = 0.388). 18 patients (21.7%) in the DS group and 14 patients (17.5%) in the EBAD group developed postoperative complication (P = 0.501). There were no differences identified for anastomotic leak rates between the two groups (P = 0.677). The rate of the pelvic abscess was lower in the EBAD group (1/80, 1.3%) than in the DS group (4/83, 4.8%) but with no statistical significance (P = 0.386). Compared with the DS group, the median operative time was shorter in the EBAD group (225 vs. 173.5 min, P < 0.001). Regarding incomplete small bowel obstruction, a higher prevalence was observed in the DS group compared to the EBAD group (7.2% vs 2.5%, P = 0.301). 7 patients (11.3%) in the DS group developed a para-stomal hernia, while no patient suffered a catheter-related complication. The median postoperative hospital stay was shorter in the DS groups than in the EBAD group (7 vs 8 days, P = 0.009). The median residence time of endo-luminal balloon-assisted drainage was 5.41 days. The median average and total volume of drainage were 51.57 ml/day and 255 ml, respectively.

CONCLUSION

EBAD is feasible and safe with similar postoperative complications when compared with a DS. EBAD may replace DS after rectum resection.

Short-term and long-term outcomes of subtotal/total colectomy in the management of obstructive left colon cancer

Purpose

Surgical management of obstructive left colon cancer (OLCC) is still a matter of debate. The classic Hartmann procedure (HP) has a disadvantage that requires a second major operation. Subtotal colectomy/total abdominal colectomy (STC/TC) with ileo-sigmoid or ileo-rectal anastomosis is proposed as an alternative procedure to avoid stoma and anastomotic leakage. However, doubts about morbidity and functional outcome and lack of long-term outcomes have made surgeons hesitate to perform this procedure. Therefore, this trial was designed to provide data for morbidity, functional outcomes, and long-term outcomes of STC/TC.

Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed consecutive cases of OLCC that were treated by STC/TC between January 2000 and November 2020 at a single tertiary referral center. Perioperative outcomes and long-term outcomes of STC/TC were analyzed.

Results

Twenty-five descending colon cancer (45.5%) and 30 sigmoid colon cancer cases (54.5%) were enrolled in this study. Postoperative complications occurred in 12 patients. The majority complication was postoperative ileus (10 of 12). Anastomotic leakage and perioperative mortality were not observed. At 6 to 12 weeks after the surgery, the median frequency of defecation was twice per day (interquartile range, 1-3 times per day). Eight patients (14.5%) required medication during this period, but only 3 of 8 patients required medication after 1 year. The 3-year disease-free survival was 72.7% and 3-year overall survival was 86.7%.

Conclusion

The risk of anastomotic leakage is low after STC/TC. Functional and long-term outcomes are also acceptable. Therefore, STC/TC for OLCC is a safe, 1-stage procedure that does not require diverting stoma.

Can physiological stimulation prior to ileostomy closure reduce postoperative ileus? A prospective multicenter pilot study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of ileostomy closure following preoperative physiological stimulation (PPS) on postoperative ileus (POI) in patients with loop ileostomy after low anterior resection for rectal cancer.

METHODS

Patients who underwent ileostomy closure between January 2017 and February 2020 in two tertiary referral centers were prospectively included. PPS stimulation was compared to standard treatment. Stimulation was carried out daily during the 15 days prior to ileostomy closure by the patient's self-instillation of 200 ml of fecal contents from the ileostomy bag via the efferent loop, using a rectal catheter. Standard treatment (ST) consisted of observation. Outcomes measures were POI, morbidity, stimulation feasibility, and predictors to ileus.

RESULTS

A total of 58 patients were included [42 males and 16 females, median age 67 (43-85) years]. PPS was used in 24 patients, who completed the entire stimulation process, and ST in 34 patients. No differences in preoperative factors were found between the two groups. POI was significantly lower in the PPS group (4.2%) vs the ST group (32.4%); p < 0.01, OR: 0.05 (CI 95% 0.01-0.65). The PPS group had a shorter time to restoration of bowel function (1 day vs 3 days) p = 0.02 and a shorter time to tolerance of liquids (1 day vs 2 days), p = 0.04. Age (p = 0.01), open approach at index surgery, p = 0.03, adjuvant capecitabine (p = 0.01). and previous abdominal surgeries (p = 0.02) were associated with POI in the multivariate analysis. C-reactive-protein values on the 3rd (p = 0.02) and 5th (p < 0.01) postoperative day were also associated with POI.

CONCLUSIONS

PPS for patients who underwent ileostomy closure after low anterior resection for rectal cancer is feasible and might reduce POI.

Could Stoma Be Avoided after Laparoscopic Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer? Experience with Transanal Tube in 195 Cases

Anastomotic leakage is the most-feared complication of rectal surgery. Transanal devices have been suggested for anastomotic protection as an alternative to defunctioning stoma, although evidence is conflicting, and no single device is widely used in clinical practice. The aim of this paper is to investigate the safety and efficacy of a transanal tube for the prevention of leakage following laparoscopic rectal cancer resection. A transanal tube was used in the cases of total mesorectal excision with low colorectal or coloanal anastomosis, undamaged doughnuts, and negative intraoperative air-leak test. The transanal tube was kept in place until the seventh postoperative day. A total of 195 consecutive patients were retrieved from a prospective surgical database and included in the study. Of these, 71.8% received preoperative chemoradiotherapy. The perioperative mortality rate was 1.0%. Anastomotic leakage occurred in 19 patients, accounting for an incidence rate of 9.7%. Among these, 13 patients underwent re-laparoscopy and ileostomy, while 6 patients were managed conservatively. Overall, the stoma rate was 6.7%. The use of a transanal tube may be a suitable strategy for anastomotic protection following restorative rectal cancer resection. This approach could avoid the burden of a stoma in selected patients with low anastomoses.

Prognostic factors for complications after loop ileostomy reversal

BACKGROUND

Defunctioning ileostomy creation and closure are both associated with morbidity. There is little data available about complications after ileostomy closure. The aim of this study was to evaluate morbidity related to loop ileostomy closure (LIC) and to determine if patients with postoperative complications in primary surgery suffer from more postoperative complications during stoma closure.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study on prospectively registered consecutive patients undergoing elective LIC in a single centre in Spain between April 2010 and December 2017. Baseline characteristics, postoperative complications after primary surgery and after stoma closure were recorded. Primary surgery included any colorectal resection, elective or urgent associated with a diverting loop ileostomy either as a protective stoma or rescue procedure. A logistic regression model was used to assess the effects of baseline variables and postoperative complications after primary surgery on the existence of postoperative complications related to LIC.

RESULTS

Four hundred and twenty-eight patients (288 men, median age 64.5 years [IQR 55.1-72.3 years]) were included in the study, and 37.4%, developed complications after LIC. The most common was paralytic ileus. Only chronic kidney disease (OR 2.31; 95% CI 1.03-5.33, p = 0.043), existence of postoperative complications after primary surgery (OR 2.25; 95% CI 1.41-3.66, p =  < 0.001) and ileostomy closure later than 10 months after primary surgery (OR 1.52; 95% CI 1.00-2.33, p = 0.049) were statistically significant in the multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with chronic kidney disease, those who had any complication after primary surgery and those who had LIC > 10 months after primary surgery have a significantly higher risk of developing postoperative complications.

Diverting ileostomy itself may not increase the rate of postoperative readmission related to dehydration after low anterior resection

Purpose

This study was performed to evaluate the risk of readmission in the first year after low anterior resection (LAR) for patients with rectal cancer and to identify the contributing factors for readmission related to dehydration specifically.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 570 patients who underwent LAR for rectal cancer at National Cancer Center, Republic of Korea. A diverting loop ileostomy was performed in 357 (62.6%) of these patients. Readmission was defined as an unplanned visit to the emergency room or admission to the ward. The reasons for readmission were reviewed and compared between the ileostomy (n = 357) and no-ileostomy (n = 213) groups. The risk factors for readmission and readmission due to dehydration were analyzed using multivariable logistic and Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

Dehydration was the most common cause of readmission in both groups (ileostomy group, 6.7%, and no-ileostomy group, 4.7%, P = 0.323). On multivariable analysis, risk factors for readmission were an estimated intraoperative blood loss of ≥400 mL (odds ratio [OR], 1.757; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.058-2.918; P = 0.029), and postoperative chemotherapy (OR, 2.914; 95% CI, 1.824-4.653; P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, postoperative chemotherapy, and not a diverting loop ileostomy, was an independent risk factor for dehydration-related readmission (OR, 5.102; 95% CI, 1.772-14.688; P = 0.003).

Conclusion

The most common cause of readmission after LAR for rectal cancer was dehydration, as reported previously. Postoperative chemotherapy, not the creation of a diverting ileostomy, was identified as the risk factor associated with readmission related to dehydration.

Transanal reinforcement of low rectal anastomosis versus protective ileostomy after total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer. Preliminary results of a randomized clinical trial

AIM

The study aimed to show if transanal reinforcement of the suture line can prevent anastomotic leakage (AL) after rectal cancer surgery, thus avoiding the need for a covering ileostomy.

METHODS

This is a prospective, multicentre, parallel-arm randomized controlled equivalence trial. After standard total mesorectal excision, patients with anastomotic line at 1-3 cm from the dentate line were randomized to have transanal suture reinforcement (TAR group) or protective ileostomy (PI group).

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients had PI, 25 had TAR. The two groups were comparable both for baseline characteristics and intra-operative aspects. Clinically evident AL occurred in four (16%) and five (17.24%) patients of the TAR and PI group, respectively, resulting in a difference of -1.20% (90% CI -17.93, 15.45), while subclinical AL at proctography was absent in 15 (65.22%) and 13 (50%) patients of the TAR and PI groups, respectively, resulting in a difference of 15% (90% CI -7.74 to 38.17).

CONCLUSION

Preliminary data suggest that transanal reinforcement of the suture line performed in rectal cancer patients with suture line at 1-3 cm from the dentate line carries a similar (even if not equivalent) AL rate to covering ileostomy, suggesting that a covering ileostomy could be avoided in this selected group of patients. This indication needs to be addressed with future larger trials (clinicaltrials.gov ID number NCT02279771).

Early postoperative outcomes of diverting loop ileostomy closure surgery following laparoscopic versus open colorectal surgery

BACKGROUND

Although diverting loop ileostomy (DLI) formation reduces the consequences of anastomotic leak and may also decrease the incidence of this severe complication, DLI closure can result in significant complications. The laparoscopic approach in colorectal surgery has numerous benefits, including reduced length of stay (LOS), less wound infection, and better cosmesis. The aim of this study was to determine whether a laparoscopic approach at the time of the ileostomy creation has a beneficial effect on the outcomes of ileostomy closure.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of an IRB-approved prospective database was performed for all patients who underwent DLI closure between 2010 and 2017. Patients' demographics, operative reports, and postoperative course were reviewed. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software and included descriptive statistics, Chi-square for categorical variables, and Student's t tests for continuous variables. Skewed variables were compared using the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test. Regression analysis for overall complications and LOS were preformed to further assess the impact of laparoscopy.

RESULTS

We identified 795 patients (363 females) who underwent DLI reversal surgery. The surgical approach in the index operation was laparoscopy in 65% of patients. Conversion to laparotomy at the ileostomy closure occurred in 6.1% of patients. The overall complication rate was lower and the LOS was shorter for patients who underwent DLI closure following laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopy at the index operation was also associated with a lower incidence of postoperative ileus and a lower estimated blood loss (EBL) at the time of DLI reversal. Multivariate regression analysis found laparoscopy to have significant benefits compared to laparotomy for overall complications and for LOS.

CONCLUSION

Ileostomy closure following laparoscopic colorectal surgery offers benefits including reductions in LOS and overall complications.

Colorectal resection in emergency general surgery: An EAST multicenter trial

OBJECTIVE

Evidence comparing stoma creation (STM) versus anastomosis after urgent or emergent colorectal resection is limited. This study examined outcomes after colorectal resection in emergency general surgery patients.

METHODS

This was an Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma-sponsored prospective observational multicenter study of patients undergoing urgent/emergent colorectal resection. Twenty-one centers enrolled patients for 11 months. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables were recorded. χ, Mann-Whitney U test, and multivariable logistic regression models were used to describe outcomes and risk factors for surgical complication/mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 439 patients were enrolled (ANST, 184; STM, 255). The median (interquartile range) age was 62 (53-71) years, and the median Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was 4 (1-6). The most common indication for surgery was diverticulitis (28%). Stoma group was older (64 vs. 58 years, p < 0.001), had a higher CCI, and were more likely to be immunosuppressed. Preoperatively, STM patients were more likely to be intubated (57 vs. 15, p < 0.001), on vasopressors (61 vs. 13, p < 0.001), have pneumoperitoneum (131 vs. 41, p < 0.001) or fecal contamination (114 vs. 33, p < 0.001), and had a higher incidence of elevated lactate (149 vs. 67, p < 0.001). Overall mortality was 13%, which was higher in STM patients (18% vs. 8%, p = 0.02). Surgical complications were more common in STM patients (35% vs. 25%, p = 0.02). On multivariable analysis, management with an open abdomen, intraoperative blood transfusion, and larger hospital size were associated with development of a surgical complication, while CCI, preoperative vasopressor use, steroid use, open abdomen, and intraoperative blood transfusion were independently associated with mortality.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights a tendency to perform fecal diversion in patients who are acutely ill at presentation. There is a higher morbidity and mortality rate in STM patients. Independent predictors of mortality include CCI, preoperative vasopressor use, steroid use, open abdomen, and intraoperative blood transfusion. Following adjustment by clinical factors, method of colon management was not associated with surgical complications or mortality.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, level IV.

Colonic Stents as a Bridge to Surgery Compared with Immediate Resection in Patients with Malignant Large Bowel Obstruction in a NY State Database

BACKGROUND

There is controversy surrounding the efficacy and safety of colonic stents as a bridge to surgery compared with immediate resection in patients presenting with an acute malignant large bowel obstruction.

METHODS

Retrospective longitudinal cohort study using the NYS SPARCS Database. Patients with acute malignant large bowel obstruction who either had stent followed by elective surgery within 3 weeks (bridge to surgery) or underwent immediate resection between October 2009 and June 2016 in the state of New York were included. The primary outcome was rate of stoma creation at index resection. Secondary outcomes were 90-day readmission, reoperation, procedural complications, and discharge disposition.

RESULTS

A total of 3059 patients were included, n = 2917 (95.4%) underwent an immediate resection and n = 142 (4.6%) underwent bridge to surgery. We analyzed 139 patients in propensity score-matched groups. Patients in the bridge to surgery group were less likely than those in the immediate resection group to get a stoma at the time of surgery (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.18-0.60). They were also less likely to be discharged to a rehabilitation facility or require a home health aide upon discharge (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.22-0.61). There were no differences in rates of 90-day readmission, reoperation, or procedural complications between groups.

DISCUSSION

Colonic stenting as a bridge to surgery leads to less stoma creation, a significant quality of life advantage, compared with immediate resection. Patients should be counseled regarding these potential benefits when the technology is available.

Laparoscopic resection and primary anastomosis for perforated diverticulitis: with or without loop ileostomy?

BACKGROUND

Evidence is growing about the benefits of laparoscopic resection with primary anastomosis (RPA) in perforated diverticulitis. However, the role of a diverting ileostomy in this setting is unclear. The aim of this study was to analyze the outcomes of laparoscopic RPA with or without a proximal diversion in Hinchey III diverticulitis.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing laparoscopic sigmoidectomy for perforated Hinchey III diverticulitis during the period 2000-2019. The sample was divided into two groups: RPA without diversion (G1) and RPA with protective ileostomy (G2). Primary outcomes of interest were 30-day overall morbidity, mortality, length of hospital stay (LOS), and urgent reoperation rates. Secondary outcomes of interest included operative time, readmission, and anastomotic leak rates.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic RPA was performed in 94 patients: 76 without diversion (G1) and 18 with proximal loop ileostomy (G2). Mortality (G1: 1.3% vs. G2: 0%, p = 0.6), urgent reoperation (G1: 7.9% vs. G2: 5.6%, p = 0.73), and anastomotic leak rates (G1: 5.3% vs. G2: 0%, p = 0.32) were comparable between groups. Higher overall morbidity (G1: 27.6% vs. G2: 55.6%, p = 0.02) and readmission rates (G1: 1.3% vs. G2: 11.1%, p = 0.03), and longer LOS (G1: 6.3 vs. G2: 9.2 days, p = 0.02) and operative time (G1: 182.4 vs. G2: 230.2 min, p = 0.003) were found in patients with proximal diversion.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic RPA had favorable outcomes in selected patients with Hinchey III diverticulitis. The addition of a proximal ileostomy resulted in increased morbidity, readmissions, and length of stay. Further investigation is needed to establish which patients might benefit from proximal diversion.

The association of age with decline in renal function after low anterior resection and loop ileostomy for rectal cancer: a retrospective cohort prognostic factor study

BACKGROUND

Low anterior resection (LAR) is often performed with diverting loop ileostomy (DLI) for anastomotic protection in patients with rectal cancer. We aim to analyze, if older patients are more prone to a decline in kidney function following creation and closure of DLI after LAR for rectal carcinoma versus younger patients.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study from a database including 151 patients undergoing LAR for rectal carcinoma with DLI was used. Patients were divided in two age groups (Group A: <65 years, n = 79; Group B: ≥65 years, n = 72). For 123 patients undergoing DLI reversal prognostic factors for an impairment of serum creatinine (SCr) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 3 months after DLI reversal was analyzed using a multivariate linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

SCr before LAR(T₀) was significant higher in Group B (P = 0.04). Accordingly, the eGFR at T₀ in group B was significantly lower (P < 0.001). No patients need to undergo hemodialysis after LAR or DLI reversal. Age and SCr at T₀were able to statistically significant predict an increase in SCr (P<0.001) and eGFR (P=0.001) three months after DLI reversal (The R² for the overall model was .82 (adjusted R² = .68).

CONCLUSION

DLI creation may result in a reduction of eGFR in older patients 3 months after DLI closure. Apart from this, patients do not have a higher morbidity after creation and closure of DLI resulting from LAR regardless of their age.

Defunctioning stoma and short- and long-term outcomes after low anterior resection for rectal cancer-a nationwide register-based cohort study

PURPOSE

A defunctioning stoma reduces the risk of symptomatic anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection for rectal cancer and mitigates the consequences when a leakage occurs, but the impact on mortality and oncological outcomes is unclear. The aim was to investigate the associations of a defunctioning stoma with short- and long-term outcomes in patients undergoing low anterior resection for rectal cancer.

METHODS

Data from all patients who underwent curative low anterior resection for rectal cancer between 1995 and 2010 were obtained from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Register. A total of 4130 patients, including 2563 with and 1567 without a defunctioning stoma, were studied. Flexible parametric models were used to estimate hazard ratios for all-cause mortality, 5-year local recurrence, and distant metastatic disease in relation to the use of defunctioning stoma, adjusting for confounding factors and accounting for potential time-dependent effects.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 8.3 years, a total of 2169 patients died. In multivariable analysis, a relative reduction in mortality was observed up to 6 months after surgery (hazard ratio = 0.82: 95% CI 0.67-0.99), but not thereafter. After 5 years of follow-up, 4.2% (173/4130) of the patients had a local recurrence registered and 17.9% (741/4130) had developed distant metastatic disease, without difference between patients with and without defunctioning stoma.

CONCLUSION

A defunctioning stoma is associated with a short-term reduction in all-cause mortality in patients undergoing low anterior resection for rectal cancer without any difference in long-term mortality and oncological outcomes, and should be considered as standard of care.

Effectiveness of the Ileostomy Pathway in Reducing Readmissions for Dehydration: Does It Stand the Test of Time?

BACKGROUND

The ileostomy pathway, introduced in 2011, has proved to be successful in eliminating hospital readmissions for high-output ileostomy or dehydration in the following period of 7 months in a single institution. However, it is unclear whether this short-term success, immediately after the initiation of the program, can be sustainable in the long term.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and the durability of the ileostomy pathway in reducing readmissions for dehydration over a longer period of time.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective review of the patients who entered into the ileostomy pathway, since its introduction on March 1, 2011, until January 31, 2015.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at a tertiary academic center.

PATIENTS

Patients undergoing colorectal surgery with the creation of a new end or loop ileostomy were included.

INTERVENTION

The long-term sustainability of the ileostomy pathway was assessed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary end point was readmission within 30 days after discharge for a high-output ileostomy or dehydration.

RESULTS

A total of 393 patients (male n = 195, female n = 198, median age 52 (18-87) years) were included: 161 prepathway and 232 on-pathway. Overall 30-day postdischarge readmission rates decreased from 35.4% to 25.9% (p = 0.04). Readmissions due to high output and/or dehydration dropped from 15.5% to 3.9% (p < 0.001). Readmissions due to small-bowel obstructions dropped from 9.9% to 4.3%, (p = 0.03).

LIMITATIONS

The possible limitations of the study included a nonrandomized comparison of the patient groups and those patients who were possibly admitted to different institutions.

CONCLUSIONS

The present ileostomy pathway decreases readmissions for high-output ileostomy and dehydration in patients with new ileostomies and is durable in the long term. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B233. EFICACIA DE VÍA DE ILEOSTOMÍA PARA REDUCIR LOS REINGRESOS POR DESHIDRATACIÓN: ¿RESISTE LA PRUEBA DEL TIEMPO?: La vía de ileostomía, introducida en 2011, ha demostrado ser exitosa en la eliminación de reingresos hospitalarios por ileostomía de alto rendimiento o deshidratación, por un período de 7 meses, en una sola institución. Sin embargo, no se ha aclarado si el éxito es a corto plazo, inmediatamente después del inicio del programa, y de que pueda ser sostenible a largo plazo.El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la eficacia y la durabilidad de la vía de ileostomía, para disminuir los reingresos por deshidratación, durante un período de tiempo más largo.Esta fue una revisión retrospectiva de pacientes que ingresaron a la vía de ileostomía, desde su introducción el 1 de marzo de 2011 hasta el 31 de enero de 2015.Este estudio se realizó en un centro académico terciario.Se incluyeron pacientes sometidos a cirugía colorrectal con la creación de una nueva ileostomía de extremo o asa.Evaluar la sostenibilidad de la vía de ileostomía a largo plazo.El punto final primario fue el reingreso dentro de los 30 días posteriores al alta, por una ileostomía de alto gasto o deshidratación.Se incluyeron un total de 393 pacientes (hombres n = 195, mujeres n = 198, edad media 52 [18-87] años), 161 antes de la vía y 232 en la vía. En general, las tasas de reingreso después del alta a 30 días, disminuyeron de 35.4% a 25.9% (p = 0.04). Los reingresos por alto rendimiento y / o deshidratación, disminuyeron del 15.5% al 3.9% (p < 0.001). Los reingresos debidos a obstrucciones del intestino delgado, disminuyeron del 9.9% al 4.3% (p = 0.03).Las posibles limitaciones del estudio incluyeron una comparación no aleatoria de los grupos de pacientes, y de aquellos pacientes que posiblemente fueron admitidos en diferentes instituciones.La vía de ileostomía disminuye los reingresos por ileostomía de alto gasto y deshidratación, en nuevos pacientes con ileostomía, y es duradera a largo plazo. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B233.

Significant morbidity is associated with proximal fecal diversion among high-risk patients who undergo colectomy: A NSQIP analysis

BACKGROUND

The value of proximal fecal diversion for patients undergoing colectomies is an ongoing debate. Previous studies have shown a benefit in decreased anastomotic leak rates and mitigation of the morbidity of a leak, especially in high-risk populations. However, more recent data suggests increased morbidity with fecal diversion, creating a complication with an unknown degree of anastomotic leak reduction. Therefore, we aimed to determine the impact on morbidity of a diverting loop ileostomy (DLI) in patients with a high risk of anastomotic leak.

METHODS

The ACS-NSQIP database was queried (via CPT code) for adult patients (age ≥18 years) who underwent a colectomy only or colectomy with ileostomy (CWI) between Jan 2013 and Dec 2016. We compared thirty-day outcomes between a 3:1 propensity-matched colectomy only group to patients who had a CWI. We used risk factors for anastomotic leak as a basis of our propensity match which included preoperative smoking, steroid use, preoperative weight loss, preoperative transfusion, hypoalbuminemia, and leukocytosis; intraoperative match variables included indication for surgery, wound class, duration of operation, primary CPT code, elective vs. emergent, and inpatient vs. outpatient surgery.

RESULTS

We identified 39,588 patients from the NSQIP database who had a colectomy only or a CWI. The colectomy only group was older (age 63 vs 52 years p < 0.001), overweight (BMI 34 vs 26.7, p < 0.001), more likely to be diabetic (16% vs 9.5%, p < 0.001) and hypertensive (49.3% vs 31.4%). However, the CWI group had higher steroid use (36.8% vs 10%, p < 0.001), preoperative sepsis (13.2% vs 2.5%, p < 0.001), smoking rate (25.7% vs 15.4%, p < 0.001), and preoperative weight loss (12.5% vs 4.9%, p < 0.001). Our propensity analysis matched 2274 colectomy only patients and 758 CWI patients. Baseline demographics were similar between groups. While the mortality rate was similar between groups (1.5% vs 1.8%, p = 0.8), CWI patients had longer length of stay (median 8 vs 7 days, p < 0.001), higher renal injury rates (3.2% vs 0.9%, p < 0.001), higher readmission rates (18.8% vs 11%, p < 0.001) and higher overall NSQIP morbidity (44.5% vs 37.6%, p = 0.001). The anastomotic leak rate was 3.8% in the CWI group and 5.1% in the colectomy only group (p = 0.09).

CONCLUSIONS

Significant thirty-day morbidity exists with a diverting ileostomy among high-risk colectomy patients with minimal benefit in anastomotic leak rates.

Clinical Outcomes of Ileostomy Closure According to Timing During Adjuvant Chemotherapy After Rectal Cancer Surgery

PURPOSE

No guidelines exist detailing when to implement a temporary ileostomy closure in the setting of adjuvant chemotherapy following sphincter-saving surgery for rectal cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and oncological outcomes of ileostomy closure during adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with curative resection of rectal cancer.

METHODS

This retrospective study investigated 220 patients with rectal cancer undergoing sphincter-saving surgery with protective loop ileostomy from January 2007 to August 2016. Patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 (n = 161) who underwent stoma closure during adjuvant chemotherapy and group 2 (n = 59) who underwent stoma closure after adjuvant chemotherapy.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed in operative time, blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, or postoperative complications in ileostomy closure between the 2 groups. No difference in overall survival (P = 0.959) or disease-free survival (P = 0.114) was observed between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Ileostomy closure during adjuvant chemotherapy was clinically safe, and interruption of chemotherapy due to ileostomy closure did not change oncologic outcomes.

Stringent fluid management might help to prevent postoperative ileus after loop ileostomy closure

PURPOSE

The present study aimed to analyze the impact of perioperative fluid management on postoperative ileus (POI) after loop ileostomy closure.

METHODS

Consecutive loop ileostomy closures over a 6-year period (May 2011-May 2017) were included. Main outcomes were POI, defined as time to first stool beyond POD 3, and postoperative complications of any grade. Critical fluid management-related thresholds including postoperative weight gain were identified through receiver operator characteristics (ROC) analysis and tested in a multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

Of 238 included patients, 33 (14%) presented with POI; overall complications occurred in 91 patients (38%). 1.7 L IV fluids at postoperative day (POD) 0 was determined a critical threshold for POI (area under ROC curve (AUROC), 0.64), yielding a negative predictive value (NPV) of 93%. Further, a critical cutoff for a postoperative weight gain of 1.2 kg at POD 2 was identified (AUROC, 0.65; NPV, 95%). Multivariable analysis confirmed POD 0 fluids of > 1.7 L (OR, 4.7; 95% CI, 1.4-15.3; p = 0.01) and POD 2 weight gain of > 1.2 kg (OR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1-9.4; p = 0.046) as independent predictors for POI.

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative fluid administration of > 1.7 L and POD 2 weight gain of > 1.2 kg represent critical thresholds for POI after loop ileostomy closure.

Defunctioning Stomas Result in Significantly More Short-Term Complications Following Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Studies suggest that defunctioning stomas reduce the rate of anastomotic leakage and urgent reoperations after anterior resection. Although the magnitude of benefit appears to be limited, there has been a trend in recent years towards routinely creating defunctioning stomas. However, little is known about post-operative complication rates in patients with and without a defunctioning stoma. We compared overall short-term post-operative complications after low anterior resection in patients managed with a defunctioning stoma to those managed without a stoma.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing elective low anterior resection of the rectum for rectal cancer. The primary outcome was overall 90-day post-operative complications.

RESULTS

Two hundred and three patients met the inclusion criteria for low anterior resection. One hundred and forty (69%) had a primary defunctioning stoma created. 45% received neoadjuvant radiotherapy. Patients with a defunctioning stoma had significantly more complications (57.1 vs 34.9%, p = 0.003), were more likely to suffer multiple complications (17.9 vs 3.2%, p < 0.004) and had longer hospital stays (13.0 vs 6.9 days, p = 0.005) than those without a stoma. 19% experienced a stoma-related complication, 56% still had a stoma 1 year after their surgery, and 26% were left with a stoma at their last follow-up. Anastomotic leak rates were similar but there was a significantly higher reoperation rate among patients managed without a defunctioning stoma.

CONCLUSION

Patients selected to have a defunctioning stoma had an absolute increase of 22% in overall post-operative complications compared to those managed without a stoma. These findings support the more selective use of defunctioning stomas.

STUDY REGISTRATION

Registered at www.researchregistry.com (UIN: researchregistry3412).

Incidence, risk factors and prevention of stoma site incisional hernias: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

Stoma reversal might lead to a stoma site incisional hernia. Recently, prophylactic mesh reinforcement of the stoma site has gained increased attention, supporting the need for accurate data on the incidence of and risk factors for stoma site incisional hernia and to identify high-risk patients. The aim of this study was to assess incidence, risk factors and prevention of stoma site incisional hernias.

METHOD

Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane and Google Scholar databases were searched. Studies reporting the incidence of stoma site incisional hernia after stoma reversal were included. Study quality was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and Cochrane risk of bias tool. Data on incidence, risk factors and prophylactic mesh reinforcement were extracted.

RESULTS

Of 1440 articles found, 33 studies comprising 4679 reversals were included. The overall incidence of incisional hernia was 6.5% [range 0%-38%, median follow-up 27.5 (17.54-36) months]. Eleven studies assessed stoma site incisional hernia as the primary end-point, showing an incidence of 17.7% [range 1.7%-36.1%, median follow-up 28 (15.25-51.70) months]. Body mass index, diabetes and surgery for malignant disease were found to be independent risk factors, as derived from eight studies. Two retrospective comparative cohort studies showed significantly lower rates of stoma site incisional hernia with prophylactic mesh reinforcement compared with nonmesh controls [6.4% vs 36.1% (P = 0.001); 3% vs 19% (P = 0.04)].

CONCLUSION

Stoma site incisional hernia should not be underestimated as a long-term problem. Body mass index, diabetes and malignancy seem to be potential risk factors. Currently, limited data are available on the outcomes of prophylactic mesh reinforcement to prevent stoma site incisional hernia.

A Nomogram to Predict Anastomotic Leakage in Open Rectal Surgery-Hope or Hype?

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage is the most dreaded complication after rectal resection and total mesorectal excision, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Formation of a diverting ileostomy is generally performed to protect anastomotic healing. Identification of variables predicting anastomotic leakage might help to select patients who are under increased risk for the development of anastomotic leakage prior to surgery. The objective of this study was to assess the applicability of a nomogram as prognostic model for the occurrence of anastomotic leakage after rectal resection in a cohort of rectal cancer patients.

METHODS

Nine hundred seventy-two consecutive patients who underwent surgery for rectal cancer were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to determine independent risk factors associated with anastomotic leakage. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was performed to calculate the sensitivity, specificity, and overall model correctness of a recently published nomogram and an adopted risk score based on the variables identified in this study as a predictive model.

RESULTS

Male sex (p = 0.042), obesity (p = 0.017), smoking (p = 0.012), postoperative bleeding (p = 0.024), and total protein level ≤ 5.6 g/dl (p = 0.007) were identified as independent risk factors for anastomotic leakage. The investigated nomogram and the adopted risk score failed to reach relevant areas under the ROC curve greater than 0.700 for the prediction of anastomotic leakage.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed nomogram and the adopted risk score failed to reliably predict the occurrence of anastomotic leakage after rectal resection. Risk scores as prognostic models for the prediction of anastomotic leakage, independently of the study population, still need to be identified.

Safety and Feasibility of Umbilical Diverting Loop Ileostomy for Patients with Rectal Tumor

BACKGROUND

Fashioning an ileostomy in the umbilicus and combining the trauma from extraction of colorectum with that from ileostomy should be less invasive and lead to improved cosmetic outcomes. However, there are only a few reports regarding umbilical ileostomy.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected data for 121 consecutive patients with rectal tumor who underwent elective laparoscopic rectal resection with diverting loop ileostomy between 2010 and 2015 at Osaka University Hospital, Japan. The safety and feasibility of umbilical diverting loop ileostomy and its influence on stoma care were investigated.

RESULTS

A total of 83 patients were included in this study; of these, 30 underwent umbilical diverting loop ileostomy and 53 underwent conventional diverting loop ileostomy, which was created in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. The umbilical and conventional groups showed similar rates of postoperative and stoma-related complications (26.7 vs. 32.1%, p = 0.804 and 3.3 vs. 3.8%, p = 1.000, respectively). Level of parastomal dermatitis was evaluated by DET score at three time points (stoma self-management establishment, first outpatient review post-discharge, and just before stoma closure). DET scores at any time points did not differ significantly between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Umbilical diverting loop ileostomy is comparable to conventional ileostomy with regard to safety and feasibility. Our methods for umbilical ileostomy using the umbilical skin flap were less invasive and did not have a negative impact on stoma care and parastomal dermatitis. Umbilical ileostomy may be a promising alternative to conventional ileostomy in selected cases.

Impact of an institutional change from routine to highly selective diversion of a low anastomosis after TME for rectal cancer

INTRODUCTION

The need for routine diverting ileostomy following restorative total mesorectal excision (TME) is increasingly debated as the benefits might not outweigh the disadvantages. This study evaluated an institutional shift from routine (RD) to highly selective diversion (HSD) after TME surgery for rectal cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients having TME with primary anastomosis and HSD for low or mid rectal cancer between December 2014 and March 2017 were compared with a historical control group with RD in the preceding period since January 2011. HSD was introduced in conjunction with uptake of transanal TME.

RESULTS

In the RD group, 45/50 patients (90%) had a primary diverting stoma, and 3/40 patients (8%) in the HSD group. Anastomotic leakage occurred in 10 (20%) and three (8%) cases after a median follow-up of 36 and 19 months after RD and HSD, respectively. There was no postoperative mortality. An unintentional stoma beyond 1 year postoperative was present in six and two patients, respectively. One-year stoma-related readmission and reoperation rate (including reversal) after RD were 84% and 86%, respectively. Corresponding percentages were significantly lower after HSD (17% and 17%; P < 0.001). Total hospital stay within one year was median 11 days (IQR 8-19) versus 5 days (IQR 4-11), respectively (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This single institutional comparative cohort study shows that highly selective defunctioning of a low anastomosis in rectal cancer patients did not adversely affect incidence or consequences of anastomotic leakage with a substantial decrease in 1-year readmission and reintervention rate, leading to an overall significantly reduced hospital stay.

Randomized clinical trial of intracutaneously versus transcutaneously sutured ileostomy to prevent stoma-related complications (ISI trial)

Background

Ileostomy construction is a common procedure but can be associated with morbidity. The stoma is commonly secured to the skin using transcutaneous sutures. It is hypothesized that intracutaneous sutures result in a tighter adherence of the peristomal skin to the stoma plate to prevent faecal leakage. The study aimed to compare the effect of intracutaneous versus transcutaneous suturing of ileostomies on faecal leakage and quality of life.

Methods

This randomized trial was undertaken in 11 hospitals in the Netherlands. Patients scheduled to receive an ileostomy for any reason were randomized to intracutaneous or transcutaneous suturing (IC and TC groups respectively). The primary outcome was faecal leakage. Secondary outcomes were stoma‐related quality of life and costs of stoma‐related materials and reinterventions.

Results

Between April 2011 and February 2016, 339 patients were randomized to the IC (170) or TC (169) group. Leakage rates were higher in the IC than in the TC group (52·4 versus 41·4 per cent respectively; risk difference 11·0 (95 per cent c.i. 0·3 to 21·2) per cent). Skin irritation rates were high (78·2 versus 72·2 per cent), but did not differ significantly between the groups (risk difference 6·1 (95 per cent c.i. –3·2 to 15·10) per cent). There were no significant differences in quality of life or costs between the groups.

Conclusion

Intracutaneous suturing of an ileostomy is associated with more peristomal leakage than transcutaneous suturing. Overall stoma‐related complications did not differ between the two techniques. Registration number: NTR2369 ( http://www.trialregister.nl).

More leaks with intracutaneous

Early versus conventional stoma closure following bowel surgery: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND/AIM

To compare early stoma closure with conventional stoma closure following defunctioning diversion stoma surgery with respect to the frequency of complications, health-related quality of life (QoL), and length of hospitalization (LoH).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study was designed as a prospective parallel-arm randomized controlled trial. Patients who underwent temporary stoma following bowel surgery between February 2014 and November 2015 were included. The rate of complications (medical and surgical) following early and conventional stoma closure was assessed. Health-related QoL and LoH were also measured.

RESULTS

One hundred patients were included, with 50 cases in each group. Postoperative complications including laparostoma (6% vs. 2%;P = 0.307), wound infection (32% vs. 18%; P = 0.106), intra-abdominal collection (14% vs. 18%; P = 0.585), anastomotic leak (4%vs. 8%;P = 0.400), and medical complications were comparable (22% vs. 32%;P = 0.257). The length of hospital stay, overall mortality and morbidity (64% vs. 44%; P = 0.05) were similar across the two groups. There was a significant reduction in the cost towards stoma care (96% vs. 2%; P = 0.001) in the early stoma closure group. Patients in the early stoma closure group also had a significantly better QoL.

CONCLUSION

Early stoma closure does not carry an increased risk of postoperative complications, reduces cost towards stoma care, and leads to better a QoL.

Study protocol evaluating the use of bowel stimulation before loop ileostomy closure to reduce postoperative ileus: a multicenter randomized controlled trial

AIM

Postoperative ileus is the most commonly observed morbidity following ileostomy closure. Studies have demonstrated that the defunctionalized bowel of a loop ileostomy undergoes a series of functional and structural changes, such as atrophy of the intestinal villi and muscular layers, which may contribute to ileus. A single-centre study in Spain demonstrated that preoperative bowel stimulation via the distal limb of the loop ileostomy decreased postoperative ileus, length of stay and time to gastrointestinal function.

METHOD

A multicentre randomized controlled trial involving patients from Canadian institutions was designed to evaluate the effect of preoperative bowel stimulation before ileostomy closure on postoperative ileus. Stimulation will include canalizing the distal limb of the ileostomy loop with an 18Fr Foley catheter and infusing it with a solution of 500 ml of normal saline mixed with 30 g of a thickening agent (Nestle^© Thicken-Up^© ). This will be performed 10 times over the 3 weeks before ileostomy closure in an outpatient clinic setting by a trained Enterostomal Therapy nurse. Surgeons and the treating surgical team will be blinded to their patient's group allocation. Data regarding patient demographics, and operative and postoperative variables, will be collected prospectively. Primary outcome will be postoperative ileus, defined as an intolerance to oral food in the absence of clinical or radiological signs of obstruction, that either requires nasogastric tube insertion or is associated with two of the following on or after post-operative day 3: nausea/vomiting; abdominal distension; and the absence of flatus. Secondary outcomes will include length of stay, time to tolerating a regular diet, time to first passage of flatus or stool and overall morbidity. A cost analysis will be performed to compare the costs of conventional care with conventional care plus preoperative stimulation.

DISCUSSION

This manuscript discusses the potential benefits of preoperative bowel stimulation in improving postoperative outcomes and outlines our protocol for the first multicenter study to evaluate preoperative bowel stimulation before ileostomy closure. The results of this study could have considerable implications for the care of patients undergoing ileostomy closure.

Home visits as part of a new care pathway (iAID) to improve quality of care and quality of life in ostomy patients: a cluster-randomized stepped-wedge trial

AIM

Morbidity in patients with an ostomy is high. A new care pathway, including perioperative home visits by enterostomal therapists, was studied to assess whether more elaborate education and closer guidance could reduce stoma-related complications and improve quality of life (QoL), at acceptable cost.

METHOD

Patients requiring an ileostomy or colostomy, for any inflammatory or malignant bowel disease, were included in a 15-centre cluster-randomized 'stepped-wedge' study. Primary outcomes were stoma-related complications and QoL, measured using the Stoma-QOL, 3 months after surgery. Secondary outcomes included costs of care.

RESULTS

The standard pathway (SP) was followed by 113 patients and the new pathway (NP) by 105 patients. Although the overall number of stoma-related complications was similar in both groups (SP 156, NP 150), the proportion of patients experiencing one or more stoma-related complications was significantly higher in the NP (72% vs 84%, risk difference 12%; 95% CI: 0.3-23.3%). Although in the NP more patients had stoma-related complications, QoL scores were significantly better (P < 0.001). In the SP more patients required extra care at home for their ostomy than in the NP (60.6% vs 33.7%, respectively; risk difference 26.9%, 95% CI: 13.5-40.4%). Stoma revision was done more often in the SP (n = 11) than in the NP (n = 2). Total costs in the SP did not differ significantly from the NP.

CONCLUSION

The NP did not reduce the number of stoma-related complications but did lead to improved quality of care and life, against similar costs. Based on these results the NP, including perioperative home visits by an enterostomal therapist, can be recommended.

Ileostomy reversal with handsewn techniques. Short-term outcomes in a teaching hospital

INTRODUCTION

Fecal diversion is considered an effective procedure to protect bowel anastomosis at high risk for leak. Some concerns exist regarding the risk for a significant morbidity associated to ileostomy creation itself and moreover to its closure. Surgical expertise and closure techniques are considered potential factors influencing morbidity. Aim of the study is to present a single-institution experience with ileostomy closures, in a teaching hospital, whereas ileostomy reversal is mainly performed by young residents.

METHODS

A prospective database was investigated to extract data of patients who underwent loop ileostomy closure between January 2005 and December 2014. Ileostomy reversion was always realized in a handsewn fashion, performing either a direct closure (DC) or a resection plus end-to-end anastomosis (EEA). Postoperative morbidity was graded according to Clavien-Dindo classification. Outcomes after DC and EEA were compared by Fisher's exact test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test.

RESULTS

Two hundred ninety-eight patients were included. Ileostomy reversal was performed by EEA in 236 patients (79.19 %) and by DC in 62 patients (20.81 %). Surgery was performed with a peristomal access in 296 cases (99.33 %). Incidence of anastomotic leak was 0.67 % (2/298). Overall reoperation rate was 0.34 % (1/298). Short-term overall morbidity rate was 20.47 %; but major complications (≥ grade III) occurred in only one patient (0.34 %). Mortality was nil. No significant differences in postoperative morbidity were found between the DC and EEA group.

CONCLUSION

Loop ileostomy reversal is a safe procedure, associated to a low major morbidity and excellent results, even if performed with a handsewn technique by supervised trainee surgeons.

Does Diverting Loop Ileostomy Improve Outcomes Following Open Ileo-Colic Anastomoses? A Nationwide Analysis

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leak is one of the most feared complications of gastrointestinal surgery. Surgeons routinely perform a diverting loop ileostomy (DLI) to protect high-risk colo-rectal anastomoses.

STUDY DESIGN

The NSQIP database was queried from 2012 to 2013 for patients undergoing open ileo-colic resection with and without a DLI. The primary outcome was the development of any anastomotic leak-including those managed operatively and non-operatively. Secondary outcomes included overall complication rate, return to the OR, readmission, and 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

Four thousand one hundred fifty-nine patients underwent open ileo-colic resection during the study period. One hundred eighty-six (4.5 %) underwent a DLI. Factors associated with the addition of a DLI included emergency surgery, pre-operative sepsis, and IBD. There were 197 anastomotic leaks (4.7 %) with 100 patients requiring reoperation (2.4 %). DLI was associated with a decrease in anastomotic leaks requiring reoperation (DLI vs no DLI: 0 (0 %) vs 100 (2.5 %); p = 0.02) and with increased readmission (OR 1.93; 95 % CI 1.30-2.85; p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

DLI is rarely used for open ileo-colic resection. There were no serious leaks requiring reoperation in the DLI group. A DLI was associated with an almost two-fold increase in the odds of readmission. Surgeons must weigh the reduction in serious leak rate with postoperative morbidity when considering a DLI for open ileo-colic resection.

Cost analysis of early versus delayed loop ileostomy closure: a case-matched study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The optimal timing for the closure of loop ileostomies remains controversial. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether early ileostomy closure (EC) (<2 weeks post-formation) results in significant healthcare savings as against late closure (LC).

METHODS

Patients with available cost data that underwent EC between January 2008 and December 2012 were compared against matched patients undergoing LC during the same period. Direct hospital costs for the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

There were 42 EC patients and 61 LC patients. EC patients had significantly less ileostomy-related complications (p < 0.001) and hospital readmissions (p < 0.001). Operative time (p < 0.001) and operative cost (p = 0.002) were also both significantly less in the EC group. Community nursing costs favoured the LC group (p = 0.047). The EC group had an increased post-closure wound infection rate (p = 0.02). The mean total direct cost per patient was NZD 13,724 (SD NZD 3,736) for EC and NZD 16,728 (SD NZD 8,028) for LC. Representing an average costs saving of NZD 3,004 per patient favouring EC (p = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Although EC increases the post-closure wound infection rate, EC reduces ileostomy complications, hospital readmissions and operative costs resulting in significant healthcare savings. In order to improve patient outcomes and make EC even more cost effective, efforts should be taken to reduce wound infections.

Risk factors and consequences of anastomotic leak after colectomy: a national analysis

BACKGROUND

Previous research has identified a number of patient and operative factors associated with anastomotic leak after colectomy; however, a study that examines these factors on a national level with direct coding for anastomotic leak is lacking.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this work was to identify risk factors associated with anastomotic leak on a national level and quantify the additional morbidity and mortality experienced by these patients.

DESIGN

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent segmental colectomy with anastomosis from the 2012 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program colectomy procedure-targeted database. Anastomotic leak was defined as minor leak requiring percutaneous intervention or major leak requiring laparotomy. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine predictors of anastomotic leak and its impact on postoperative outcomes.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at a tertiary university department.

PATIENTS

This study includes 13,684 patients who underwent segmental colectomy with anastomosis at American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program-affiliated hospitals in 2012.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome studied was anastomotic leak.

RESULTS

The overall leak rate was 3.8%. Male sex, steroid use, smoking, open approach, operative time, and preoperative chemotherapy were associated with increased anastomotic leaks and diverting ileostomy with decreased incidence of leaks on multivariate analysis. Increased length of stay (13 vs 5 days; p < 0.001) and increased 30-day mortality (6.8% vs 1.6%; p < 0.001) were also seen in patients who experienced leaks. These patients also experienced increased readmission rates (43.5% vs 8.3%; p < 0.001) and were 37 times more likely to require reoperation as a complication of their primary procedure (p < 0.001).

LIMITATIONS

The main limitations of this study include its retrospective nature and the limited 30-day outcomes recorded in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified patient and operative risk factors for anastomotic leak on a national scale. It also demonstrates that these patients have increased morbidity and 30-day mortality rates, experience multiple readmissions to the hospital, and have a higher likelihood of requiring further operative intervention.

Stimulation of the efferent limb before ileostomy closure: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Postoperative ileus is the most common complication after ileostomy closure with an increase in morbidity, hospital stay, and health care costs.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to assess the utility of a new technique for reducing postoperative ileus after protective ileostomy closure.

DESIGN

This is a prospective randomized study registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01881594). Patients were randomly assigned to undergo either stimulation through the efferent limb of the ileostomy before surgery or nonstimulation before surgery.

SETTING

This study was conducted at the Department of Surgery of the Virgen de la Arrixaca Clinical University Hospital (Murcia).

PATIENTS

Seventy patients underwent surgery for ileostomy closure. In 35 patients, during the 2 weeks before surgery, daily stimulation of the defunctionalized stomal segment was performed by using a thick solution (500 mL of physiological saline associated with 30 g of thickening agent, Nestle Resource, Vevey, Switzerland). In the other 35 patients, stimulation was not performed before surgery.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was postoperative ileus. The secondary outcomes included time to tolerating a diet and postoperative stay.

RESULTS

Both groups of patients were homogenous for demographic data, characteristics of the first rectal cancer operation, and intersurgery periods. After ileostomy closure, the stimulated group of patients had an earlier return to oral tolerance (1.06 vs 2.57 days; p = 0.007) and passage of flatus or stool (1.14 vs 2.85 days; p <0.001) than the nonstimulated group of patients. The incidence of postoperative ileus (2.85% vs 20%; p = 0.024) and hospital stay (2.49 vs 4.61 days; p = 0.002) was also lower in the stimulated patients.

LIMITATIONS

Small numbers of patients means that no definitive statements can be made regarding the effectiveness of this technique.

CONCLUSIONS

Stimulation of the efferent limb of the ileostomy before closure is a safe technique that reduces postoperative ileus and fosters early intestinal transit and oral tolerance with a shorter postoperative hospital stay.

A temporary loop ileostomy affects renal function

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate renal morbidity after a temporary loop ileostomy and to identify possible preoperative risk factors.

METHOD

Consecutive patients at four hospitals serving 1,520,000 inhabitants who received a temporary loop ileostomy and underwent subsequent closure were identified and retrospectively studied from 1 January 2007 until 28 February 2010. Serum creatinine levels were obtained 1 week before index surgery and 1 week before closure of the loop ileostomy. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the CKD-EPI formula.

RESULTS

Three hundred eight patients with median age of 64 were identified. The indication for the loop ileostomy was colorectal cancer (226), inflammatory bowel disease (41), diverticulosis (8), and other conditions (33). Median time until closure was 161 days (3-873). There was a decrease in eGFR at time of closure (89 vs. 83; p < 0.0001), and the number of patients with renal impairment (eGFR <60) increased (7.5 vs. 21 %, p < 0.0001). Preoperative risk factors for eGFR <60 at closure were age and hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that a loop ileostomy is associated with a reduced renal function for most patients, especially for older and hypertensive patients. This should be considered before constructing a loop ileostomy, and perhaps another stoma should be chosen if possible in patients at risk. Evaluation of medications before discharge and early and frequent postoperative follow-up could also reduce the risk of a reduced renal function.

Role of diversion ileostomy in low rectal cancer: a randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Rectal cancer continues to be devastating malignancy worldwide. Sphincter preservation is the need of the hour. Distal anastomosis is more prone to leaks. Proximal diversion in form of ileostomy may be used to protect distal anastomosis.

AIM

To compare two groups of low anterior resection with and without diversion ileostomy in rectal cancer patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective, hospital based study of 78 rectal carcinoma patients were taken for the study. Inclusion criteria was operable rectal cancer 4-12 cm from anal verge. Patients were randomized into two groups. Group - A (34 patient) patients with low anterior resection with ileostomy (LAR with ileostomy); Group - B (44 patients) patients with low anterior resection without ileostomy (LAR without ileostomy). Quality of life was assessed by scoring done by self designed method. A total score of 0-20 given for various parameters.

RESULTS

Skin excoriation was the commonest complication. Stomal retraction and stomal obstruction was seen in 1 patient each (3%). Hypokalemia was the commonest electrolyte imbalance present in ileostomy group. Anastomotic leak was present in 6% of Group A and 11% of Group B patients. Mean time of closure of ileostomy was 16 ± 4.3 weeks.

CONCLUSION

LAR with ileostomy has certain advantages over LAR without ileostomy in terms of anastomotic leak, postoperative ileus, resumption of diet, wound infection, small bowel obstruction and in terms mortality and recurrence. However stoma related complications were main disadvantage in LAR with ileostomy.

Clinical competence in the surgery of rectal cancer: the Italian Consensus Conference

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The literature continues to emphasize the advantages of treating patients in "high volume" units by "expert" surgeons, but there is no agreed definition of what is meant by either term. In September 2012, a Consensus Conference on Clinical Competence was organized in Rome as part of the meeting of the National Congress of Italian Surgery (I Congresso Nazionale della Chirurgia Italiana: Unità e valore della chirurgia italiana). The aims were to provide a definition of "expert surgeon" and "high-volume facility" in rectal cancer surgery and to assess their influence on patient outcome.

METHOD

An Organizing Committee (OC), a Scientific Committee (SC), a Group of Experts (E) and a Panel/Jury (P) were set up for the conduct of the Consensus Conference. Review of the literature focused on three main questions including training, "measuring" of quality and to what extent hospital and surgeon volume affects sphincter-preserving procedures, local recurrence, 30-day morbidity and mortality, survival, function, choice of laparoscopic approach and the choice of transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The difficulties encountered in defining competence in rectal surgery arise from the great heterogeneity of the parameters described in the literature to quantify it. Acquisition of data is difficult as many articles were published many years ago. Even with a focus on surgeon and hospital volume, it is difficult to define their role owing to the variability and the quality of the relevant studies.

Morbidity and mortality of temporary diverting ileostomies in rectal cancer surgery

INTRODUCTION

A temporary diverting ileostomy is frequently used to reduce the consequences of a distal anastomotic leakage after total mesorectal excision in rectal cancer surgery. This surgical technique is associated with high morbidity and a not negligible mortality. The aim of this study is to evaluate the morbidity and mortality rate associated with an ileostomy and its posterior closure.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between 2001 and 2012, 96 patients with temporary diverting ileostomy were retrospectively analyzed. Morbidity and mortality were analyzed before and after the stoma closure. The studied variables included age, sex, comorbidities, time to bowel continuity restoration and adjuvant chemotherapy.

RESULTS

In 5 patients the stoma was permanent and another 5 died. The morbidity and mortality rates associated with the stoma while it was present were 21 and 1% respectively. We performed a stoma closure in 86 patients, 57% of whom had previously received adjuvant therapy. There was no postoperative mortality after closure and the morbidity rate was 24%. The average time between initial surgery and restoration of intestinal continuity was 152.2 days. This interval was significantly higher in patients who had received adjuvant therapy. No statistically significant difference was found between the variables analyzed and complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Diverting ileostomy is associated with low mortality and high morbidity rates before and after closure. Adjuvant chemotherapy significantly delays bowel continuity restoration, although in this study did not influence in the rate of complications.

Can trans-anal reinforcing sutures after double stapling in lower anterior resection reduce the need for a temporary diverting ostomy?

AIM: To evaluate trans-anal reinforcing sutures in low anterior resection using the double-stapled anastomosis technique for primary rectal cancers performed at a single institution.

METHODS: The data of patients who received trans-anal reinforcing sutures were compared with those of patients who did not receive them after low anterior resection. Patients who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection and the double-stapled anastomosis technique for primary rectal cancer between January 2008 and December 2011 were included in this study. Patients with no anastomosis, a hand-sewn anastomosis, high anterior resection, or preoperative chemoradiation were excluded. The primary outcomes measured were the incidence of postoperative anastomotic complications and placement of a diverting ileostomy.

RESULTS: Among 110 patients, the rate of placement of a diverting ileostomy was significantly lower in the suture group (SG) compared with the non-suture control group (CG) [SG, n = 6 (12.8%); CG, n = 19 (30.2%), P = 0.031]. No significant difference was observed in the rate of anastomotic leakage [SG, n = 3 (6.4%); CG, n = 5 (7.9%)].

CONCLUSION: Trans-anal reinforcing sutures may reduce the need for diverting ileostomy. A randomized prospective study with a larger population should be performed in the future to demonstrate the efficacy of trans-anal reinforcing sutures.

Ileostomy pathway virtually eliminates readmissions for dehydration in new ostomates

BACKGROUND

New ileostomates face significant physical and psychological adaptations. Despite advanced resources, such as wound, ostomy, and continence nurses, we observed a high readmission rate for dehydration among patients with new ileostomies.

OBJECTIVE

Our goal was to create a pathway to reduce readmission and facilitate patient education and well-being.

DESIGN

The 'Ileostomy Pathway' was established by a collaborative group at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. A standardized set of patient education tools was developed to be used throughout the perioperative process. Patient's education started with the preoperative visit. All patients were directly engaged in ostomy management and trained in a stepwise progression. Patients were discharged from the hospital with flow sheets, supplies for recording intake/output, and visiting nurse services. Prospectively collected data from the first 7 months was compared with a retrospective database of the previous 4 years.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at a tertiary academic center.

PATIENTS

Patients with a new permanent or temporary ileostomy were included.

INTERVENTIONS

A new ileostomy pathway was created.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measured was readmission rates.

RESULTS

One hundred sixty-one patients were assigned to prepathway implementation and 42 were assigned to postpathway implementation. One hundred three of 203 (50.7%) patients were men, and 58 of 203 (28.6%) patients had permanent ostomies. Overall readmission rate was 35.4% and 21.4% for the prepathway and postpathway groups. The readmission rate for dehydration was 15.5% (25/161) for prepathway patients, but dropped to 0% in the study group. The average length of stay after creation of the new ostomy was 7.5 days and 6.6 days for prepathway and postpathway groups.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its small sample size and the lack of randomization.

CONCLUSIONS

A simple, educational program for new ileostomy patients that includes preoperative teaching, standardized teaching materials, in-hospital engagement, observed management, and postdischarge tracking of intake and output is very effective in decreasing hospital readmission. The average length of stay remained stable, despite the addition of this teaching program to our perioperative/inpatient care.

Morbidity related to defunctioning loop ileostomy in low anterior resection

AIM

A defunctioning loop ileostomy in low anterior resection reduces the incidence and morbidity of an anastomotic leakage, but complications related to the stoma may occur. We explored stoma-associated complications during the stoma period and after stoma reversal.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of rectal cancer patients operated with low anterior resection and a defunctioning loop ileostomy at Helsingborg Hospital and Malmö University Hospital from January 2007 to June 2009 was undertaken.

RESULTS

Ninety-two patients were included, of whom 82 (89 %) underwent stoma reversal. The median stoma period was 6.2 ± 3.2 months. Sixty-six percent of the patients suffered from minor or major stoma-associated morbidity. The complication rate was significantly related to the stoma time (p < 0.01). Twenty-nine percent (27/92) had at least one episode of dehydration, leading to readmittance in half of the cases. Elderly patients were more prone to develop dehydration. Dehydration most commonly occurred early in the postoperative period (mean, 5.8 weeks). The mean hospital stay for stoma reversal was 6.5 ± 4.0 days. Forty percent (33/82) had some complication associated with the reversal.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates high morbidity associated with defunctioning loop ileostomy. Our data suggest that the stoma time should be limited to reduce complications. Monitoring and early stoma reversal should be considered in elderly patients. Furthermore, stoma reversal is not uneventful, and more studies are needed to address how to minimize complications.