1Management of faecal evacuation via a colostomy: A Systematic Review Background

Gastrointestinal stomas are frequently applied in the practice of gastrointestinal surgery. Although the creation of a stoma is believed to be a relatively minor surgical procedure, complications are frequent and even with an uncomplicated postoperative surgical course, the emotional impact of a stoma can be quite negative.1 The patient is faced with a profound change in body image and feelings of inadequacy and depression are common. The fear of stool leakage caused by the failure of appliances, ballooning of bags, bad odors and the necessity for further treatment are some of the daily problems that impacts on the quality of life (QOL) of these patients.1 Most patients who receive stoma surgery, especially a permanent colostomy, have colorectal cancer. Therefore, they have to cope with a life threatening disease and the impact of surgery, both of which can significantly influence quality of life.2 There are various techniques for management of faecal evacuation via colostomy: (1) natural spontaneous evacuation, (2) control of colostomy output by drugs, (3) colostomy irrigation which is a mechanical method to empty the bowels by installing liquid into the large intestine through the stoma; and (4) insertion of glycerine suppository into th