Stoma creation for fecal diversion: is the laparoscopic technique appropriate?

This study assessed the results of laparoscopic stoma creation for fecal diversion. All patients who underwent elective laparoscopic stoma creation as the sole procedure were evaluated prospectively. Univariate analysis was performed to determine whether previous abdominal surgery, age, gender, body mass index, indication, or surgeons' experience has an effect on the outcome. Between November 1992 and May 1998, 42 patients (17 males, 25 females) with a mean age of 62.1 years (range 17-91) underwent laparoscopic stoma formation. Fecal diversion included loop ileostomy (n = 7), loop sigmoid colostomy (n = 32), and end-sigmoid colostomy (n = 3). Most common indications were unresectable rectal cancer, rectal obstruction caused by advanced pelvic tumors and benign disorders such as perianal Crohn's disease, and fecal incontinence. Of the 42 procedures 41 were completed laparoscopically (97.6%). Complications occurred in four patients (9.5%) requiring reoperation in two (4.8%). Mean length of surgery was 74.4 min (range 30-200). First bowel movements resumed on the 3rd day (range 2nd-7th) after surgery and patients were discharged from hospital after 13 days (range 6-47). Short-term results (> 30 days-1 year) indicated that no further stoma-related complications occurred. Analyzing factors potentially predictive of outcome, no statistically significant differences were documented in relation to previous abdominal surgery, age, gender, body mass index, indication, or surgeons' experience (P > 0.05). Laparoscopic stoma creation is appropriate to achieve fecal diversion because it is technically feasible and can be performed with low morbidity. In addition to the benefits of the minimally invasive technique for the patients, laparoscopic stoma formation can be ideal for the surgeon as basic and initial step to perform laparoscopic colorectal procedures.