Problems of ileostomy in necrotizing enterocolitis

Exteriorization of the intestine and resection of the gangrenous bowel are major therapeutic regimens for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Ileostomy associated complications are well known, therefore the time of ileostomy closure is a matter for discussion. Between 1975 and 1992, 84 patients with NEC were treated surgically. Ileostomies were performed in 37 children (44%). Of these 37 neonates, 9 (7M, 2F) died. In the remaining 28 patients (16M, 12F) with a mean gestational age of 35.8 weeks and a mean birth weight of 2412 g, ileostomies were performed between the 2nd and 11th days after birth. On average, the stomies were in function for 91 days, and within this period the average weekly weight gain was 153 g. Nineteen patients of this group did not show any problems attributable to the ileostomy. In 9 patients (32%) complications occurred, requiring a preplanned closure of the stoma. Postinflammatory strictures of bowel were diagnosed in 9 patients and resection of the stenotic intestine was performed at the same time as stoma closure. In conclusion, an appropriate weight gain can be achieved in patients with an ileostomy with an adequate feeding regimen. In otherwise uncomplicated cases, ileostomy closure can be delayed by up to 10 weeks when simultaneous surgical correction of additional intestinal strictures is possible. In one-third of patients with an ileostomy, however, complications may occur and urge a preplanned closure of the stoma.