[Unopened colostomy, a protective procedure for high risk colorectal anastomosis]

The classical "protective colostomy" upstream of a high risk colo-rectal anastomosis is not fully effective and requires subsequent reconstructive surgery. For these reasons, it is little used to date. Unopened colostomy provides complete obturation above the anastomosis and therefore effective protection. When no anastomotic fistula develops, the colostomy loop is re-entered on the 8th postoperative day. In case of fistula, it is opened and becomes functional. The procedure is easy to perform and well accepted by the patient. It increases surgical safety and shortens the duration of stay in hospital.