An Analysis of the Timing for Closure of a Diverting Loop Ileostomy

A diverting loop ileostomy (DLI) is used to protect a distal gastrointestinal anastomosis at risk of leakage. While patients typically prefer early DLI closure, surgeons vary in opinion regarding optimal timing. This study evaluated whether the timing of DLI closure impacts outcomes. A retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent DLI creation within one health care system between 2012 and 2020. Patient characteristics and postoperative outcomes were compared across ileostomies closed in <= 2 months, 2-4 months, and >4 months. Outcomes examined included anastomotic leak, other complications, reintervention, and death within 30 days. A total of 500 DLIs were analyzed for the study, 455 of which were closed. The three closure groups were similar in patient characteristics and comorbidities. None of the outcome variables analyzed in this study demonstrated a statistically significant difference between groups, suggesting that in patients otherwise fit for surgery, DLI closure can be safely performed within 2 months of creation.