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Diversion colitis in patients scheduled for colostomy closure
C P Orsay1, D O Kim, R K Pearl
1Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Cook County Hospital, Chicago, Illinois 60612.
Diseases of the Colon and Rectum
|April 1, 1993
Summary
Diversion colitis, an inflammation of the colon due to diversion, affects most patients undergoing colostomy closure. This condition does not increase infection risk after colostomy closure surgery.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- Diversion colitis is a poorly understood condition affecting the defunctionalized bowel segment.
- It is often observed in patients with a colostomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate the incidence and characteristics of diversion colitis in patients undergoing colostomy closure.
- To assess the association between diversion colitis and complications after colostomy closure.
Main Methods:
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy was used to examine the colons of 34 patients scheduled for colostomy closure.
- Biopsies and cultures were obtained if colitis was evident.
- Patients were assessed for the presence and severity of colitis and for post-operative complications.
Main Results:
- Twenty-six patients (76%) exhibited mild to severe diversion colitis at an average of 29.9 weeks post-diversion.
- Eight patients (24%) had normal colons at an average of 16.6 weeks post-diversion.
- Three complications (wound infections) occurred after colostomy closure, with no increased risk associated with diversion colitis.
Conclusions:
- Diversion colitis is a common finding in patients with a defunctionalized colon.
- The presence of diversion colitis does not appear to elevate the risk of surgical site infections following colostomy closure.