Laparoscopic versus open colostomy reversal: a comparative analysis.

Open colostomy reversal carries significant rates of wound infection, anastomotic leak, and incisional hernia which often limit its acceptance. We hypothesized that the laparoscopic approach to the restoration of intestinal continuity may result in lower perioperative morbidity and faster postoperative recovery. Twenty-two cases of laparoscopic colostomy reversals performed at a single institution were identified and compared to 22 randomly selected open colostomy closures performed during the same time period. Patients were compared based on demographics, previous indications for colostomy procedures, and perioperative outcomes. A total of 152 patients underwent reversal of left-sided colostomies during the study period. The laparoscopic approach was successful in 20 of 22 cases; there were 2 conversions to open (9%) secondary to inability to adequately mobilize the rectal stump. The laparoscopic and open groups were comparable based on mean age (54 years versus 49 years; P = 0.23), BMI (26 kg/m(2) versus 27 kg/m(2); P = 0.66), gender (9% males versus 13% males; P = 0.23), ASA Class (2.6 versus 2.3; P = 0.07), and history of previous intra-abdominal sepsis (17 versus 16 cases). Operative times were similar (158 versus 189 minutes; P = 0.16), and estimated blood loss was significantly less in the laparoscopic group (113 versus 270 ml; P = 0.01). No intraoperative complications occurred in the laparoscopic group and two enterotomies occurred in the open group. The laparoscopic group had earlier passage of flatus (3.5 versus 5.0 days; P = 0.001) and shorter hospitalization (4.2 versus 7.3 days; P = 0.001). Perioperative complications occurred in 3 (14%) laparoscopic and 13 (59%) open cases (P = 0.01). There was no mortality in this series. The laparoscopic approach can be safely used in the restoration of intestinal continuity. It results in a decreased perioperative morbidity and faster recovery, and it offers distinct advantages over the open approach to colostomy reversal.