Reversal of Diverting Loop Ileostomy Using Hand-Sewn Side-to-Side versus End-to-End Anastomosis after Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer: A Single Center Experience

Abstract

Construction of diverting loop ileostomy has become a common adjunct to low anterior resection for rectal cancer because it substantially reduces the severity of postoperative morbidity. Various trials have compared hand-sewn with stapled anastomotic techniques, but the existing evidence regarding different configurations of hand-sewn anastomoses is scarce. The aim of this study is to compare the early postoperative outcomes of loop ileostomy reversal using the hand-sewn end-to-end or side-to-side configuration. A retrospective review was conducted on 62 consecutive patients undergoing ileostomy reversal between January 2012 and June 2017. The main outcome measure was postoperative bowel obstruction within 30 days after ileostomy reversal. Secondary outcomes included rate of anastomotic insufficiency, wound infection, reoperation, postoperative length of stay, and overall morbidity. The end-to-end (EE) anastomosis group consisted of 32 cases, whereas the side-to-side (SS) group consisted of 30 cases. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and BMI were similar between the two groups. No statistically significant difference was noted regarding postoperative bowel obstruction between the two groups [EE vs SS: 4/32 vs 0, P = 0.11]. Postoperative length of stay was longer for the EE group (P = 0.03). Overall, 30-days morbidity was higher for the EE group (EE vs SS: 11/32 vs 3/30, P = 0.03). All other secondary outcomes did not differ between the two groups. No statistically significant difference was observed with regard to postoperative bowel obstruction. Overall, 30-days morbidity and postoperative length of stay were significantly higher for the EE group. Further randomized trials are required to verify our findings.