[The role of ileostomy in the prevention and treatment of complications of deep rectal anastomoses].

The authors analyzed their data of the last three and a half years about patients with temporary loop ileostomy. We formed 18 ileostomies in patients with rectum carcinoma where the anastomosis was performed in the mid or lower rectum. Ten ileostomies were formed because of anastomotic leak, eight to protect the anastomosis, although there were no signs of insufficiency at the time of the intraoperative testing. Sixteen of the 18 patients had no complications. There were two complications in connection with ileostomies, these stomas were closed earlier than usual. Two other patients needed permanent stomas. Fourteen ileostomies were reversed without complications after 6-8 weeks. Two patients with local septic complications, following the closure, were treated conservatively. No reoperations were needed because of anal incontinence or anastomotic stenosis. We consider loop ileostomy safe with low morbidity, it can prevent diffuse peritonitis and/or a permanent stoma. Its routine use is recommended in patients with "ultra low" anastomoses and in cases where the intraoperative air test is positive.