Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
5732137 | International Journal of Surgery | 2017 | 4 Pages |
â¢The optimal timing for the closure of loop ileostomies remains controversial.â¢To the best of our knowledge, this study is the highest number (358 patients) of case-matched patients (179 patients each) to demonstrate that ileostomy closure (<3 months) has similar outcomes compared to ileostomy closure (â¥3months).
IntroductionThe optimal timing for the closure of loop ileostomies remains controversial. The aim of this study is to determine whether ileostomy closure (<3 months post formation) affects stoma-related morbidity compared to late closure (â¥3 months post formation).MethodsAll patients who had loop ileostomy and ileostomy closure between 2012 and 2015 were identified from an IRB-approved, prospectively maintained institutional database.The patients who underwent ileostomy closure (<3 months) were compared against matched patients undergoing ileostomy closure (â¥3 months). The outcomes for the two groups were compared.ResultsA total of 358 patients were analyzed. Mean age was 46 ± 17 years. There were 179 patients in each group [ileostomy closure (<3 months) and ileostomy closure (â¥3 months)]. Both groups were matched. Groups were comparable in preoperative characteristics and demographics. All of the peri-operative variables were comparable. No difference was observed in estimated blood loss (EBL), operative time (OT) and length of stay (LOS) (all p > 0.05). Postoperative outcomes including wound infection, post-operative bleeding, intra-abdominal abscess, ileus, small bowel obstruction (SBO), anastomotic leak, reoperation, surgery related readmission, postoperative transfusion were also similar among the groups (p > 0.05).ConclusionsIleostomy closure (<3 months) is practical and safe. It does not increase morbidity and significantly reduces the time patient has a stoma. This may be advantageous in regards to having a reduced possibility of stoma related complications.