early complications

Last reviewed 09/2021

The early complications of stomas include:

  • ischaemia of the terminal bowel and resultant mucosal sloughing and necrosis - this requires refashioning of the stoma
  • obstruction of the stoma - this may be due to faeces or oedema. This is often relieved by exploration with a gloved finger. This complication may require softening enemas or glycerine suppositories.
  • skin erosion and discomfort - this is caused by persistent leakage between the appliance and the skin - for example over a skin crease - it may necessitate resiting of the stoma.