Factors affecting the morbidity of colostomy closure: a retrospective study.

The use of a temporary colostomy is essential in the management of trauma, carcinoma, iatrogenic perforations, diverticulitis, and a number of congenital anomalies of the colon. Closure of a colostomy can be associated with a significant complication rate and even mortality and should not be considered a minor procedure. This is a retrospective study of 114 patients undergoing closure of colostomy, in which an attempt was made to investigate and single out the factors determining complications of colostomy closure. The results point toward timing and technique of closure as the two main factors determining complications associated with colostomy closure.