Clinical results of loop ileostomy closures in rectal cancer surgical patients. Effect of chemotherapy in the waiting period

Abstract Introduction The introduction of sphincter preservation surgery in rectal cancer has led to an increase in the number of low resections protected with a loop ileostomy. This requires subsequent closure of the stoma, a surgical procedure which is not devoid of morbidity or mortality. The aims of the study were to analyse the clinical results of the passage reconstruction surgery and to find out the interval between both surgeries, as well as the role chemotherapy plays in this. Patients and method The prospective data of patients previously operated on for rectal cancer were used retrospectively with those whose ileostomy was closed between May 2004 and September 2008. Data associated to chemotherapy indication, interval between surgeries and complications were collected and analysed. Results A total of 54 consecutive patients with a mean age of 66 years were analysed. The mean interval between surgeries was 178 days, being significantly less in the patient group that did not receive chemotherapy (P=.008). The post-operative stay was 6.3 days (SD=4.1). Mortality due to respiratory failure was 1.8% and the morbidity was 22.2%, with 7.4% requiring further surgery. Conclusions The mortality and morbidity of ileostomy closures are not inconsiderable, although its advantages in the protection of the stoma justify its use. The ileostomy construction interval appears to be significantly affected by post-operative chemotherapy.