[A rare complication of colostomy]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• A 64-year-old female patient with a prior Miles operation for rectal cancer presented with complications.
• The patient had a history of rectal cancer treated with a Miles operation six years prior to this admission.

Observation:

• The patient developed a severe infection around her left colostomy, initially localized but progressing.
• The infection evolved into extensive necrotizing fasciitis of the abdomen, colostomy dehiscence, and severe sepsis.

Findings:

• Repeated surgical interventions, including a transverse colostomy to rest the infected left colostomy, were performed.
• Aggressive medical management alongside surgical procedures resulted in wound healing and a successful redo of the left colostomy.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for severe complications following ostomy surgery, even years later.
• Prompt and aggressive multidisciplinary management is crucial for favorable outcomes in complex peristomal infections and sepsis.
• Further surgical intervention may be required to manage complications and restore quality of life.