Abstract Stomas are essential for colorectal surgery and are widely used not only for selected cases for bowel obstructions but also in rectal cancer operations to divert stool away from low rectal anastomosis. On the other hand, complications with stomas/ stomas reversal are not uncommon. In this study, we aimed at studying the frequency and the predictors of temporary stomas being permanent, and the contributing factors of surgical stoma/stoma closure related complications. In our cohort, only about 40% of the patient closed their initially planned temporary stomas. The occurrence of intestinal leak, wound sepsis, or any type of morbidity with 30 days of operation were significant predictors of permanent stomas. In addition, alarmingly although Hartmann’s procedure was uncommon in our practice, only 9% of those who underwent Hartmann’s have had it reversed. Moreover, the only factor that significantly increased stoma related complications was having an end colostomy. There was a tendency toward late closure of stomas with median 8.2 months, however early closure did not correlate to complications. In conclusion, further studies are needed to delineate the low rate of stoma closure. Patients who develop postoperative complications, even wound sepsis, would be at a higher risk of living with permanent stomas. Hartmann’s procedures are commonly associated with stoma problems, and reluctance to reverse the stomas.

Resumo Introdução O câncer colorretal é um problema de saúde global. A incidência de câncer retal, em particular, está aumentando; acredita-se que esta neoplasia apresente critérios epidemiológicos e prognósticos únicos. Métodos O presente estudo avaliou retrospectivamente os dados de 245 pacientes de um centro terciário no Egito. Critérios clínico-epidemiológicos e preditores de sobrevida foram analisados. Resultados A doença afeta a população mais jovem, sem predileção por sexo. O prognóstico é afetado pela idade, estado nodal, metástase e obstrução intestinal. Conclusão O câncer retal apresenta critérios únicos na população egípcia. Recomenda-se um registro nacional de base populacional para delinear a natureza da doença no Egito.

Abstract Background Colorectal cancer represents a global health problem. Rectal cancer in particular is increasing and is believed to carry a unique epidemiologic and prognostic criteria. Method We herein study retrospectively the data of 245 patients from a tertiary center in Egypt. Clinico-epidemiologic criteria and predictors of survival are analyzed. Results The disease affects younger population without sex predilection. Prognosis is affected by age, nodal status, metastasis, and bowel obstruction. Conclusion Rectal cancer has unique criteria in the Egyptian population. A national population based registry is recommended to delineate the nature of the disease in Egypt.