“The purpose of this study was to compare the rates of small bowel obstruction, anastomotic complications, and wound infections between stapled and handsewn closures of loop ileostomies. The diverting loop ileostomy is a commonly used stoma, often employed to diminish the consequences of an anastomotic leak in low colorectal anastomoses, ileal pouch-anal anastomoses, and in situations where reversible patient factors increase the risk of an anastomotic dehiscence. They are also used to divert the fecal stream in the event of an anastomotic leak and, occasionally, in severe fistulizing perianal disease.”

“This study failed to demonstrate a clearly superior anastomotic technique for closing loop ileostomies. There were trends toward superiority of the stapled technique in terms of lower SBO rates and shorter operative time.” (Leung)

Leung TT, et al Comparison of stapled versus handsewn loop ileostomy closure: a meta-analysis. J Gastrointest Surg. 2008 May;12(5):939-44. Full Text for Emory Users