Parastomal hernias

Abstract

Parastomal hernia is a common complication of stoma formation, having an incidence of about 10%. As with many other ostomy-associated complications, most parastomal hernias are related to inadequate pre-operative planning or technical errors. Most of these hernias should be managed conservatively; only 10-20% of patients eventually require operative intervention. When an operation is indicated, relocating the stoma generally yields better long-term results than does an attempt at local repair of the hernia.