Effect of diverting colostomy on collagen metabolism in the colonic wall. Studies in the rat.

The effect of total bowel rest by colostomy on collagen metabolism was studied. Fecal diversion led to a marked decrease of collagen and protein synthesis in the excluded colon. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in the amount of collagen and noncollagenous components. In the colonic part proximal to the colostomy site, a less marked decrease in collagen content was observed. It was concluded that stimulation of intraluminal bulk might be important as a regulating factor for collagen turnover. It remains to be determined if the observed changes in collagen metabolism affect colonic healing.