title: The unopened loop ileostomy.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  A defunctioning loop ileostomy is often fashioned to protect distal colorectal anastomoses, with the aim of limiting the effect of any breakdown that may occur. However, its creation and subsequent closure may be associated with significant morbidity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the alternative use of an unopened loop ileostomy.
  
  
  METHODS
  Patients undergoing colorectal resection and distal anastomosis were given an unopened loop ileostomy instead of a conventional ileostomy. Any complications associated with the stoma and ease of closure were recorded for each patient.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Complications occurred in seven (58%) of the 12 patients included in the study. Replacement of the ileal loop was difficult in five patients, one patient developed a wound abscess and pseudomembranous colitis, and a further patient had a persistent post-operative pyrexia of unknown cause.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Despite the theoretical advantages of an unopened loop ileostomy, the results of this small study do not support the routine use of such a stoma as an adjunct to high risk colorectal anastomoses.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Scarborough Hospital, Scarborough, UK.
authors.lastname: Woodcock
authors.lastname: Qureshi
authors.lastname: Macfie