A technique for wound closure that minimizes sepsis after stoma closure

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to assess the incidence of wound sepsis following closure of ileostomies and colostomies in our institution. METHODS: Circumferential subcuticular wound approximation was used in 51 patients in our institution. Evidence of wound sepsis (assessed by the presence of cellulitis, induration and or purulent discharge) was documented both in the postoperative period and in outpatient follow-up. RESULTS: A wound infection rate of 0% was achieved, both in the immediate postoperative period and upon 6-week follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Circumferential subcuticular wound approximation is, therefore, a safe and efficacious technique for dealing with the skin wound after stomal closure, virtually abolishing wound sepsis.