STOMA study SToma-leak ratio in advanced ovarian cancer surgery: Results of a restrictive policy on the use of protective stoMAs

Objective: Assessemnet of anastomotic leak rates following recto-sigmoid resection in advanced ovarian cancer surgery after implementing a restrictive stoma policy. Secondary objectives include identifying predictive factors for stoma creation, analyzing anastomotic leak management, and perioperative outcomes. Summary background data: Recto-sigmoid resection is essential in advanced ovarian cancer treatment but carries risks like anastomotic dehiscence. The role of protective stomas remains uncertain, highlighting the need for targeted strategies. Methods: This retrospective study includes data from 722 patients who underwent recto-sigmoid resection between January-2020 and December-2023 at Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS in Rome. Patients were classified under liberal (2020−2021) or restrictive (2022−2023) stoma policies. The liberal approach relied on general surgeon preference without predefined criteria, while the restrictive policy introduced a systematic evaluation of risk factors by the gynecologic oncologist and the general surgeon in the surgical team before proceeding with ostomy creation. Results: The restrictive policy significantly reduced stoma rates from 38.8 % to 11.1 % (p < 0.001) without increasing anastomotic leaks (stable at 2.5 %, p = 1.000). Predictive factors for stoma included multiple bowel resections, inferior mesenteric artery closure, low anastomosis, and residual tumor. Patients with stomas experienced more severe postoperative complications (p = 0.007), prolonged hospital stays (p < 0.001), and delayed chemotherapy (p = 0.018). No differences in anastomotic leak management were recorded among patients with and without ostomy. Conclusions: A restrictive stoma policy reduced ostomy rates without affecting leak rates or mortality, supporting individualized surgical decision-making in ovarian cancer. Prospective studies are needed to clarify risk factors for leaks and validate the necessity of protective stomas.