Surgical Outcomes, Complications, and Recovery Following Temporary Intestinal Stoma Reversal

Abstract

Background: Fecal diversion surgery, including ileostomy and colostomy, defunctions the distal bowel to protect anastomoses and prevent complications. Stomas may be temporary or permanent, with closure carrying risks such as leaks, fistula, wound infection, or hernia. Outcomes are influenced by patient condition, surgical technique, and timing. This study aimed to assess clinical outcomes, complications, hospital stay, and recovery following temporary stoma reversal. Methods: This prospective observational study, conducted from January to December 2017 at Bangladesh Medical College Hospital, included 31 randomly selected patients undergoing temporary stoma reversal. Patients of any age or sex with a temporary stoma who consented were included, while permanent stomas were excluded. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Excel and SPSS to assess surgical outcomes, complications, and recovery. Results: Among 31 stoma reversal patients, most regained bowel function by postoperative day 3–4, with hospital stays of 5–65 days (77% stayed 5–25 days). Major complications occurred in 39% (fistula 13%, stricture 16%, anastomotic leak 3%, hernia 6%) and minor complications in 48% (wound infection 19%, secondary closure 26%, PR bleeding 3%). Higher ASA score, longer surgery, stapler closure, and chemo/radiotherapy increased complication risk, while 61% had no major and 52% had no minor complications. Conclusion: Stoma reversal effectively restores bowel continuity but carries risks of complications. Most patients regained bowel function by day 3–4 with short hospital stays. Major complications were rare, while minor complications were more frequent. Higher ASA scores, stapler closure, and chemo/radiotherapy increased risks. Careful patient assessment and surgical planning are essential to optimize outcomes.