The Effect of Adjuvant Chemotherapy on Stoma-Related Complications After Surgery for Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Patients undergoing curative surgery for colorectal cancer resulting in a loop ileostomy who received adjuvant chemotherapy had higher stoma complication scores at 3 months compared to those who underwent surgery with no chemotherapy. This difference was not seen in patients with colostomies or end ileostomies. Patients, WOC nurses, and medical staff must be alert to the potential of increased loop ileostomy-related complications with adjuvant chemotherapy. Fully informed patient consent coupled with timely support and advice may reduce stoma-related morbidity and improve quality of life for such patients.