What is stoma closure?
During the operation, the bowel is detached from the front abdominal wall, its continuity is restored by creating an anastomosis, and the opening in the abdominal wall is then closed.
Before the operation, the condition of the anastomosis is always assessed to make sure there is no leak, no recurrence of the disease, and no other contraindications to restoring the natural passage of the bowel.
Our approach
At MSI, a stoma is closed only after the main treatment is fully complete and the safety of the reconstructive procedure has been confirmed.
Before surgery, a comprehensive examination is carried out, which may include colonoscopy, X-ray contrast studies or contrast-enhanced computed tomography, and laboratory tests. This makes it possible to confirm that the anastomosis has fully healed and that there are no risk factors.
We aim to perform reconstructive operations as gently as possible, using modern surgical techniques and the principles of *ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery)*, which support a fast recovery.
When is surgery needed?
Stoma closure is performed:
- after anterior resection of the rectum
- after colon operations with a protective ileostomy
- after emergency operations when bowel continuity was temporarily impossible
- after completion of chemotherapy or other stages of treatment, if they were needed
- after full healing of the intestinal anastomosis has been confirmed
Indications for surgery
Surgery is recommended when there is:
- a temporary colostomy or ileostomy
- a fully healed intestinal anastomosis
- no active inflammation
- no signs of recurrence of the underlying disease
- a satisfactory general condition of the patient
How is the operation performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
The surgeon mobilizes the section of bowel brought out onto the front abdominal wall, restores its continuity by creating an anastomosis, and closes the defect in the abdominal wall. In most cases, the operation is performed through an incision around the stoma without the need for a large laparotomy, although in certain clinical situations a laparoscopic or open exploration of the abdomen may be needed.
Advantages of reconstructive surgery
- Restoration of the natural passage of intestinal contents
- No need for a permanent stoma bag
- Improved quality of life
- A return to your usual lifestyle
- Restoration of physical and social activity
Recovery after surgery
After surgery, bowel function gradually recovers. In the first days, more frequent bowel movements or changes in stool may occur, which are usually temporary.
Postoperative care follows the *ERAS* program, which includes early mobilization, modern pain relief, and a gradual return to eating.
Our advantages
- Specialization in reconstructive colorectal surgery
- Comprehensive examination before stoma closure
- Individual determination of the optimal timing of reconstruction
- Modern anastomosis techniques
- Adherence to international colorectal surgery guidelines
- Modern enhanced recovery protocols (ERAS)
Frequently Asked Questions
The timing depends on the underlying disease, healing of the anastomosis, and the need for additional treatment. The final decision is made after follow-up examinations.
Yes. Before closing a stoma, it is necessary to make sure that the anastomosis has fully healed and that there are no contraindications to reconstructive surgery.
Not always. During the first weeks, more frequent bowel movements, urgency, or changes in stool consistency are possible. In most patients, these symptoms gradually decrease.
No. Closure is possible only when the stoma was created as a temporary one and there are no medical contraindications to reconstruction of the bowel.
Most patients return to their everyday activities within a few weeks, but full recovery of bowel function may take longer and depends on individual factors.