Ghost ileostomy as alternative to protective ileostomy in rectal cancer

Ghost ileostomy is a feasible alternative to protective ileostomy for rectal cancer patients post-surgery, aiming to reduce stoma-related burdens.

In a trial of 80 patients, ghost ileostomy showed non-inferior rates of overall complications and readmissions compared to protective ileostomy.
No significant differences in bowel obstruction or acute tubular necrosis were found between the two groups.

Ghost ileostomy could be safe for low-risk patients, but larger studies are needed to confirm these results and refine patient selection.

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