Reduction of an incarcerated, prolapsed ileostomy with the assistance of sugar as a desiccant

Abstract

Prolapse is a well-described complication after ileostomy or colostomy, and is typically asymptomatic and easily reduced. Acute incarceration of a prolapsed stoma is a rare event, however. A patient presented with an incarcerated, prolapsed ileostomy causing small bowel obstruction and stomal ischemia. Successful reduction was performed with the assistance of sugar as a desiccant. Incarceration of a prolapsed ileostomy is highly atypical, but can be approached in a similar manner to an incarcerated rectal prolapse. Successful reduction can prevent an emergent operation, allowing for medical optimization and elective surgical treatment if necessary.