A comparison of complications associated with colostomy reversal versus ileostomy reversal

Background: The incidence of complications after reversal of Hartmann's procedure is unknown. This study compares the morbidity of Hartmann's reversal versus loop ileostomy reversal. Methods: Two groups of 20 patients were studied retrospectively over a 5-year period. One group underwent Hartmann's takedown, and the other underwent loop ileostomy takedown. Postoperative complications were compared between the 2 groups. Results: Similar demographics were noted between each group. The most common initial indications for Hartmann's procedure were diverticulosis (11 patients, 55%) and colon cancer (4 patients, 20%). For patients who had undergone colectomy with primary anstomosis and ileostomy, colon cancer was the most common indication (12 patients, 60%) followed by diverticulosis (3 patients, 15%). Complications were more common after Hartmann reversal than loop ileostomy reversal (16 complications/11 patients versus 6 complications/4patients, P = .047). Conclusion: Segmental colonic excision with anastomosis and loop ileostomy may be an attractive alternative to minimize morbidity with stoma reversal.