Frequency and Complications of Ileostomy

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Procedures
• Public Health

Background:

• Ileostomies are critical for temporary fecal diversion in severe ileal perforation cases.
• Despite being life-saving, ileostomies are linked to significant post-operative complications.
• Understanding the frequency and types of ileostomy complications is vital for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence and spectrum of complications associated with ileostomies.
• To analyze the types of complications encountered in patients undergoing ileostomy.
• To provide data for better management strategies for ileostomy patients.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal observational study was conducted over one year (July 2019-July 2020).
• 84 patients over 12 years old undergoing ileostomy were included.
• Patients were assessed post-operatively and followed for three months to record complications.

Main Results:

• 61 out of 84 patients (72.69%) developed ileostomy complications.
• The most frequent complication was skin excoriation (19.4%), followed by wound infection (13%) and nonfunctioning stoma (11.9%).
• Other complications included prolapse, stenosis, retraction, high-output fistula, parastomal hernia, necrosis, and hemorrhage.

Conclusions:

• Ileostomy remains a common and essential surgical procedure, often necessitated by late patient presentation.
• Complications following ileostomy are frequent but generally manageable.
• Prompt identification and intervention for ileostomy-related complications are key to reducing patient morbidity.