Temporary ileal cecostomy.

Results obtained with temporary ileal cecostomy in 23 patients are reported. Particular attention is given to the incidence of anastomotic leakage, morbidity, mortality, hospitalization and nursing. The results achieved were successful and, although the series presented is small, the authors suggest that this technique should be further considered as an alternative to the more standard diversion techniques of colostomy in colonic resection, particularly where the integrity of the anastomosis is likely to be at risk, as in the anterior resection of the rectum and especially in lower anterior resection.