Abstract
Temporary stomas are frequently used in the management of diverticulitis, colorectal
cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease. These temporary stomas are used to try to
mitigate septic complications from anastomotic leaks and to avoid the need for reoperation.
Once acute medical conditions have improved and after the anastomosis has been proven
to be healed, stomas can be reversed. Contrast enemas, digital rectal examination,
and endoscopic evaluation are used to evaluate the anastomosis prior to reversal.
Stoma reversal is associated with complications including anastomotic leak, postoperative
ileus, bowel obstruction, enterocutaneous fistula, and, most commonly, surgical site
infection. Furthermore, many stomas, which were intended to be temporary, may not
be reversed due to postoperative complications, adjuvant therapy, or prohibitive comorbidities.
Keywords
stoma - ileostomy closure - Hartmann's reversal - colostomy closure
