Blowhole colostomy for the urgent management of distal large bowel obstruction

Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 3, 2026

Murine Distal Colostomy, A Novel Model of Diversion Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice

Murine Distal Colostomy, A Novel Model of Diversion Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice

Published on: July 12, 2018

Kevin R Kasten¹, Emily F Midura¹, Bradley R Davis¹

¹Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio.

The Journal of Surgical Research

|February 6, 2014

Abstract

Background:

Complete obstruction of the distal colon or rectum often presents as a surgical emergency. This study evaluated the efficacy of blowhole colostomy versus transverse loop colostomy for the emergent management of distal large intestinal obstruction.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review of all colostomy procedures (CPT 44320) performed for complete distal large bowel obstruction during the past 6 y in a university hospital practice was undertaken. Blowhole was compared with loop colostomy with a primary endpoint of successful colonic decompression.

Results:

One hundred forty-one patients underwent colostomy creation during the study period. Of these, 61 were completed for acute obstruction of the distal colon or rectum (19 blowhole versus 42 loop colostomy). No differences between study groups were seen in age, gender, body mass index, malnutrition, American Society of Anesthesiology class, time to liquid or regular diet, 30-d or inhospital mortality, or rates of complications. Patients undergoing blowhole colostomy had significantly higher cecal diameters at diagnosis (9.14 versus 7.31 cm, P = 0.0035). Operative time was shorter in blowhole procedures (43 versus 51 min, P = 0.017). Postoperative length of stay was significantly shorter for blowhole colostomy (6 versus 8 d, P = 0.014). The primary endpoint of successful colonic decompression was met in all colostomy patients.

Conclusions:

Diverting blowhole colostomy is a safe, quick, and effective procedure for the urgent management of distal colonic obstruction associated with obstipation and massive distention.

Keywords:

Blowhole Cancer Colostomy Obstruction Stricture

More Related Videos

Complete and Partial Aortic Occlusion for the Treatment of Hemorrhagic Shock in Swine

Complete and Partial Aortic Occlusion for the Treatment of Hemorrhagic Shock in Swine

Published on: August 24, 2018

Robot-assisted Total Mesorectal Excision and Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Locally Advanced Middle-low Rectal Cancer

Robot-assisted Total Mesorectal Excision and Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Locally Advanced Middle-low Rectal Cancer

Published on: February 12, 2022

Related Concept Videos

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:

Ostomy Care

Ostomy Care

Introduction
An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an artificial opening from the intestines to the outside of the body, allowing for the rerouting of effluent. This opening is known as a stoma. A stoma usually protrudes above the skin surface, appearing pink or red, moist, and round, and it lacks nerve sensations.
There are different types of ostomies, including colostomies, ileostomies, and urostomies:

Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care

Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care

Surgical management and nursing care are crucial in treating Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD). Here is an organized and enhanced overview of the surgical interventions and the associated nursing care for PUD:
Surgical Interventions for Peptic Ulcer Disease

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology

Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...

Tracheostomy Decannulation

Tracheostomy Decannulation

Tracheostomy decannulation is a significant milestone in the liberation of mechanically ventilated patients. Despite its importance, there is no universally accepted protocol for this procedure. This demands an evidence-based, individualized approach.
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction

Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine that disrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents through the lumen. This interruption impairs digestion, absorption, and fluid balance, and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.Mechanical ObstructionMechanical obstruction occurs when a physical blockage prevents intestinal contents from passing, arising from within the lumen or the bowel wall, or from external compression.Adhesions,...

Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.

Incorporating Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in the Treatment of Obstructed Defecation Syndrome and Posterior Compartment Pelvic Organ and Rectal Prolapse: Proceedings of the Consensus Meeting of the Pelvic Floor Consortium of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, the International Continence Society, the International Urogynecological Association, the American Urogynecologic Society, and the American Physical Therapy Association.

Diseases of the colon and rectum·2026

Incorporating Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in the Treatment of Obstructed Defecation Syndrome and Posterior Compartment Pelvic Organ and Rectal Prolapse : Proceedings of the Consensus Meeting of the Pelvic Floor Consortium of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, the International Continence Society, the International Urogynecological Association, the American Urogynecologic Society, and the American Physical Therapy Association.

International urogynecology journal·2026

Implementation of a penicillin allergy protocol in open abdominal wall reconstruction: Preoperative optimization program.

Surgery·2024

Systematic Review of Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy for Mismatch Repair Deficient Locally Advanced Colon Cancer: An Emerging Strategy.

Diseases of the colon and rectum·2024

Disparate potential for readmission prevention exists among inpatient and outpatient procedures in a minimally invasive surgery practice.

Surgery·2023

Does Rectoanal Intussusception Limit Improvements in Clinical Outcome and Quality of Life After Sacral Nerve Stimulation for Fecal Incontinence?

Diseases of the colon and rectum·2023

See all related articles