Radio-contrast imaging of the rectum prior to colostomy closure for rectal trauma--is routine use still justified?

This retrospective study was undertaken to assess the yield of radio-contrast imaging of the rectum before closure of colostomy following extraperitoneal rectal trauma. Sixty-nine patients (63 males) underwent colostomy closure in 36 months. All radio-contrast studies (colograms) performed before closure of colostomy were normal, and there were no deaths following closure. This study demonstrated that the yield from pre-closure radio-contrast imaging of the rectum after rectal trauma was negligible and did not influence colostomy closure. We conclude that while it may be appealing to suggest abandonment of its routine use, this investigation needs to be further evaluated prospectively with special attention given to injury to associated structures such as bone, bladder and vagina.