Comparative analysis of purse-string method versus conventional methods for stoma closure

Objectives: Stoma surgery, essential for treating conditions like Crohn's disease, colorectal cancer, and diverticular disease, requires effective closure techniques to minimize postoperative complications and enhance patient outcomes. This study aims to compare the purse-string technique with traditional closure methods, emphasizing postoperative outcomes and complications. Methods: This study retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 44 patients who underwent stoma closure at Antalya University Hospital between August 2015 and November 2019. Twenty-one patients underwent the purse-string (PS) method and twenty-three underwent conventional methods (CM). Patient demographics, such as age, sex, body mass index, and medical history, were recorded. Variables such as surgical duration, complication rates, and recovery periods were meticulously analyzed. Results: The analysis indicated that patients treated with the PS method had notably reduced infection rates (9.5% in PS vs. 21.5% in CM) and quicker healing times compared to conventional methods. The circular suture pattern of the PS method demonstrated greater efficacy in minimizing postoperative complications. Complications were observed in 21.5% of patients with CM and 9.5% of patients with the PS method. Notably, systematic reviews have shown that the PS closure technique reduces surgical site infection (SSI) rates, although its impact on the length of hospital stay remains uncertain. Conclusions: The PS method shows a significant advantage over traditional techniques in stoma closure. Its benefits in lowering infection rates and promoting quicker recovery emphasize its potential as a preferred method in surgical practice. The study advocates for the broader adoption of the PS method in clinical settings, given its positive impact on patient outcomes.