Colostomy closure

One hundred and forty-seven colostomies were closed in 146 patients at Wellington Hospital between 1 January 1978 and 1 January 1987. The majority of stomata were formed in patients with colorectal cancer. At least one additional significant procedure was undertaken at the time of stoma closure in 10 patients. The overall complication rate was highest in those patients undergoing closure of a sigmoid end-colostomy (50%). Three complications resulted in death (2%). Twenty-four patients (16.3%) developed wound infections. Five patients developed 'leaks' (3.4%). The use of prophylactic antibiotics appeared to reduce the rate of infection significantly. The highest rates of wound infection and leakage occurred in patients in whom drains were used. Wound infections increased hospital stay. Thirty-one non-bowel or wound-related complications occurred in 25 patients.