Timing and method of reversal of Hartmann's procedure

ABSTRACT

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reversal of Hartmanns colostomy by comparing the complications of surgery with the time interval from formation to reversal as well as with the technique of anastomosis. Between March 1998 and March 2002, 32 patients with Hartmann's colostomy [18 men and 14 women with a mean age +/- SD 60.1 +/- 8.1 years] were included in this prospective study in El- Minia University Hospitals. All patients received complete clinical examination and routine investigations and the mean follow up period was 12 +/- 3.2 months. The study concluded that the late reversal [after four months] of Hartmanns procedure is more safer than the early reversal [before four months]. The reversal by stapled anastomosis is associated with a low incidence of major anastomotic complications and permanent colostomies