Colostomy Complications Research Articles

Serositis--a complication of colostomy.

IN FASHIONING a colostomy one should consider the extent of serosa exposure; this should be kept at a minimum to prevent serositis. The complications of ileostomy are well known; its maturation was shown by Crile and Turnbull 1 to be completed when infection of the serosa subsides. Difficulties of the ileostomy stoma were lessened by covering the serosa with skin, as advocated by Dragstedt et al. , 2 and, better, by simply cutting the stoma off flush with the skin and sewing it, leaving no serosa exposed. As is attested by the relative paucity of complications from colostomy stomas, the serosa of the large bowel must be more resistant to infection than the serosa of the ileum; however, a similar maturation can take place, especially if a large amount of serosa is exposed for a prolonged time. Report of Cases The following cases illustrate serositis developing in colostomy stomas. Case

Postoperative problems of ileostomy and colostomy.

The major cutaneous problems formerly associated with ileostomy have been virtually eliminated by appliances that can be held in place by adhesives. Advances in surgical procedures for initial establishment, subsequent care, and occasionally necessary revision of the stoma have rendered possible the complete rehabilitation of most ileostomy patients. Improved surgical methods have similarly been found to prevent or correct complications of colostomy, e. g., necrosis, retraction, or stenosis of the stoma. The colostomy patient can usually attain control of feces by regular irrigations without the need of wearing a bag and thereafter rarely has psychological or social problems.

Complications of a wet colostomy after pelvic evisceration corrected by separation of urinary and fecal streams; report of a case.

Complications of a wet colostomy after pelvic evisceration corrected by separation of urinary and fecal streams; report of a case.

Complications of abdominal colostomy

Addominal colostomy is often an essential and life-saving measure in a variety of lesions of or related to the large bowel. The frequently used expression “simple colostomy” is misleading since complications may be numerous and are occasionally serious; many are avoidable. The procedure should, therefore, be planned and executed with care. Time spent in instruction of the patient is well repaid by his comfort and rehabilitation.