Childhood Colostomy and Its Complications in Aba, Nigeria

Background: Colostomy in paediatric surgical practise is still important for decompression in colonic bowel obstruction, trauma to the colon and perineum in children. Objective: To determine the indications and complications arising from childhood colostomy in Aba, Nigeria. Methods: Proforma was opened for consecutive children that had colostomy at the Abia State University Teaching Hospital Aba from October 2016 to November 2017. Data collected include demography, indication for colostomy, Type of colostomy, complications arising from the procedure and outcome. SPSS version 17 was used to asses for proportions and percentages. Results: Thirty children had colostomy during the 14 months period. There were 20 males and 10 females (male to female 2:1). Their ages ranges from 2 days to 2 years [Mean 6.5months]. The main indications for colostomy were high anorectal malformation in 15patients (50%), Hirschsprung’s disease 10 patients (33%) and perineal trauma in 5 patients (17%). Complication occurred in 10 patients (33%). The most common complications were skin excoriations in 7 patients, surgical site infection and stoma bleeding. Four patients died following severe co-morbidities. Conclusion: Colostomy is still needed for decompression in childhood colonic intestinal obstruction. However, morbidity is still high due to lack of stoma bags and stoma care nurses