Aims: To report and evaluate the clinical value of circular stapler-assisted extraperitoneal colostomy.
Methods: We performed circular stapler-assisted extraperitoneal colostomy following Miles' operation in 22 patients over a 2-year period from March 2007 to March 2009. The efficiency and safety of the operation were evaluated.
Results: The length of surgery was 15 ± 5 min, and all the colostomies were successfully completed during the first procedure. No complications such as anastomotic infections, hemorrhage, necrosis, or invagination occurred after surgery. No scar contraction, stoma stenoses, intestinal obstructions, or parastomal hernias were found during the follow-up period of 24-72 months. All the colostomies functioned well.
Conclusion: Circular stapler-assisted extraperitoneal colostomy can be a safe and effective procedure to improve the outcome of surgery for rectal cancer. This is one of the few studies attempting stapled colostomy, and at present the technique appears promising but warrants a longer follow-up period and additional study, in particular a prospective trial including a control group.
Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.