Management of Complicated Ostomy Dehiscence: A Case Study.

BACKGROUND

Stoma creation is a common procedure in colorectal surgery. Despite improved surgical techniques, ostomy-related wound complications may prolong the recovery period and impair health-related quality of life. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), autolytic debridement agents, and silver dressings are often used for managing complex wound infection and dehiscence. These applications have the potential to increase patient comfort and accelerate recovery.

CASE: We report our experience in a 66 year old female who had a wound dehiscence involving the ostomy after robotic abdominoperineal resection. Her medical history was significant for a rectovaginal fistula which occurred after a low anterior resection for rectal cancer 5 years ago. Interventions for treatment of the dehiscence were use of NPWT, autolytic debriding agent, and silver dressing.

CONCLUSION

Combined use of these interventions for dehiscence of an ostomy can minimize patient discomfort and accelerate wound healing.