Proximal Protective Diverting Ostomy Following Colon Anastomosis for Penetrating Trauma May Not Be Protective: A Matched Cohort Study.

Introduction: Despite the shift toward liberal primary anastomosis in penetrating colon injuries, some surgeons recommend a protective diverting ostomy (DO) proximal to the anastomosis. This study evaluates the effect of DO on outcomes in patients undergoing colon resection and anastomosis following penetrating trauma. Methods: The TQIP database (2013-2018) was queried for penetrating colon injuries undergoing colectomy and anastomosis. Patients receiving DO were propensity matched to patients without diverting ostomy (woDO) (1:3). Outcomes were compared between groups. Results: After matching, 89 DO patients were analyzed. The DO group had more surgical site infections (32 % vs. 21 %; p < 0.05) and longer hospital stay (20 [13-27] vs. 15 [9-25]; p < 0.05) compared to the woDO group. Mortality and unplanned operations were similar between groups. Conclusions: Diverting ostomy after colon resection and anastomosis is associated with increased infectious complications without decreasing unplanned operations or mortality. Its routine role in penetrating colon trauma needs reassessment.