Saving one Stoma at a Time

Ostomy surgeries can lead to significant changes in body image and function that require lifestyle adjustments. However, the creation of a stoma is the most important factor in securing successful outcomes of stoma management. Although surgical techniques have improved, complications associated with new ileostomies continue to present major problems for patients’ quality of life. To remedy some of these stoma complications the unit-based WOCN decided to initiate a weekly contest. Criteria for potential winners were discussed with each Colorectal attending on the unit. The number of colorectal patients returning to the outpatient prior to June 2010 was estimated 30% with poorly constructed stomas’ due to surgical techniques. This contest was implemented with the participation of the colorectal fellows to entice them into creating the best possible ileostomy. A marked improvement was noted from 10% to 20% of well -constructed stomas after six months of the contest initiation. To date, 10% of patients who return to the outpatient for follow-up care have problems associated with poor stoma construction as compared to past figures of 30%. Subsequently, the enhancement of the fellows’ surgical techniques contributed to optimal stoma construction.