Publication:

Factors affecting temporary stoma outcomes at a major Saudi University Hospital

Background Temporary stoma formation for fecal diversion is commonly performed in surgery. The rate of stoma-related complications is high, and the risk increases in patients with prolonged time to closure. Thus, identifying factors that influence the time to stoma closure and the rate of its complications would aid in implementing preventive measures. We aimed to determine predictors affecting the time to stoma closure and to identify risk factors for developing complications following stoma reversal.

Methods A retrospective review including all adult patients who underwent stoma closure from 2012-2018 at our institution was conducted. Multivariate regression analysis was used to determine risk factors affecting time to stoma closure and developing complications after reversal surgery.

Results A total of 63 patients were included. Of those, 50.8% were diagnosed with malignancy. The median time to stoma closure was 222.5 days (interquartile range i.e. IQR 12-2228).Having an American society of anesthesiologists (ASA) class IV was the only significant predictor of prolonged time to closure. For cancer patients, developing complications following stoma formation surgery, and receiving adjuvant therapy significantly increased the time to stoma reversal. In contrast, cancer patients who underwent multi-organ resection had shorter time to closure. The rate of complications following stoma reversal was 30.2%. Having a colostomy and requiring readmission after stoma formation surgery increased the risk of developing complications related to stoma reversal.

Conclusions Multiple factors can impact the time to stoma closure and increase the risk of developing complication related to stoma closure. Awareness about these factors and development of preventive strategies is recommended.