Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2017; 30(03): 178-183
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1598158
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

The Role of Temporary Fecal Diversion

Amy L. Lightner
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
,
John H. Pemberton
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
22 May 2017 (online)

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Abstract

The use of temporary fecal diversion is of great importance to tenuous anastomosis, immunosuppressed patient, or actively infected patient. Its use protects newly constructed intestinal anastomoses from being the culprit of pelvic sepsis or systemic illness. Thus, potential morbidity and mortality can be averted. However, its appropriate or optimal use is often debated. We herein discuss the evidence for when to best use a diverting stoma for colorectal, coloanal, and ileoanal anastomoses. We also discuss the importance of considering a temporary diverting stoma in the setting of high-dose immunosuppression (e.g., transplant patients or inflammatory bowel disease), active infection, or upon creation of ileal pouch–anal anastomosis. Lastly, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a loop ileostomy versus colostomy for temporary diversion of fecal contents.