ANALYSIS OF A HOSPITAL-BASED STOMATHERAPY SERVICE

  • 1 January 1985
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 67  (1) , 37-40
Abstract
The activities of a hospital-based stomatherapy service were analyzed between 1980-1983. The average numbers of patients seen per annum included 395 outpatients, 307 inpatients and 116 home visits. Of the 276 inpatients with colostomies, 72% had underlying malignant disease; 17% were performed as emergencies and 51% were temporary stomas. Hospital mortality for patients with a temporary stoma was 19% and only 59% had their temporary stoma reversed. Only 45% of colostomy patients received preoperative counselling and 11% had no regular follow-up. Complications were recorded at some stage after colostomy in 25% but only 10% required surgical refashioning. Of the 184 inpatients with ileostomies, 52% had ulcerative colitis and 41% had Crohn''s disease. Only 13% of ileostomies were performed as emergencies and only 11% were temporary. In contrast to colostomy, 83% of ileostomy patients received preoperative counselling and adequate follow-up was provided for 98% of patients. Complications were recorded in 57% of patients after ileostomy but surgical reconstruction was needed in only 18%.