The loop stoma bridge--a new technique.

BACKGROUND

Conventionally, supporting rods made of glass, plastic, or similar material have been used for 1 week to 10 days for loop stomas to prevent retraction. However, this is associated with difficulty in applying the stomal appliance till removal of the rod resulting in leakage of fecal matter.

METHODS

A closed suction drain tube of 16 or 18 F placed in the subcutaneous tissue with the help of a trocar is used as a bridge. The points of entry and exit of the tube are just beyond the circumference of the flange.

RESULTS

Apart from discomfort and pain in 5 patients, no major complications were encountered in the 33 patients studied.

CONCLUSION

The method described is safe, cheap, and easily performed by junior surgical resident with low morbidity. The colostomy flange can be applied immediately without leakage.