Outcomes following two-stage surgical approaches in the treatment of pediatric ulcerative colitis.

INTRODUCTION: Surgery for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) can be performed in one-, two-, or three-stage procedures [1]. The more traditional approach is a total proctocolectomy and creation of an ileo pouch-anal anastomosis and diverting stoma at the initial operation, followed by ileostomy closure several weeks later (TIPPA) [1]. An alternative is an initial subtotal colectomy and end ileostomy [2]. In this alternative approach (NIPAA), a completion proctectomy and definitive ileo pouch-anal anastomosis can be performed without a diverting stoma. We hypothesize that functional outcomes following a NIPAA approach when performed in children, in our experience, are likely similar or improved when compared to those treated by TIPAA.

METHODS: After IRB approval, a review of patients who underwent a two-stage Laparoscopic IPAA from 2004 to 2017 occurred. Data included demographics, diagnosis, surgical intervention time to full diet, level of continence, use of antidiarrheals and complications.

RESULTS: N = 41 (NIPAA = 14, TIPAA = 27). After establishment of bowel continuity, no significant differences in appetite recovery, continence, or complications were noted. The number of antidiarrheals prescribed were significantly higher in the TIPAA group (p = 0.01). Thirteen patients (31.7%) had pouchitis: 4 NIPAA and 9 TIPAA (p = NS). Of the 41 patients, 11 required subsequent surgery; 2 patients (18.2%) received NIPAA and 9 (81.8%) received TIPAA (p = 0.20). Two TIPAA patients received a diverting ileostomy owing to chronic anal pain and failure to achieve continence.

CONCLUSION: This study suggests children with medically refractory UC treated by NIPAA or TIPAA have similar outcomes. Minimal differences in overall outcome were noted following either approach. However, NIPAA may reduce reliance on antidiarrheals to achieve satisfactory defecation outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III Retrospective comparative study.