No-Stoma Policy in Advanced Ovarian Cancer Surgery

Overview

Resection of the sigmoid-rectum is a procedure frequently required in cytoreductive surgery for advanced ovarian cancer, and it is also among the procedures with the highest risk of complications. One of the major, albeit uncommon, complications of intestinal anastomosis is anastomotic leakage. According to the literature, the rate of anastomotic leakage following cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer ranges from 1.7% to 17%. The risk factors associated with this complication are varied and often inconsistent across studies. They range from preoperative clinical conditions-such as age, low albumin levels, and Body Mass Index \< 18-to intraoperative factors such as low to mid rectal resection, high ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery, and multiple bowel resections. Apart from the rehabilitative programs introduced by the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocol-which aim to improve the nutritional status of patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer-we currently lack validated tools to reduce the risk of leakage. The most commonly used strategy remains the creation of a protective stoma. However, several studies have shown that this procedure is not actually a protective factor against anastomotic leakage; rather, its utility lies in mitigating the severity of the complication. Nonetheless, stomas have a significant clinical and psychological impact, with complication rates ranging from 33.9% to 45% and reversal rates between 66.5% and 89%. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of a no-stoma strategy in a selected "low-risk" population for anastomotic leakage among patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery for primary or recurrent ovarian cancer. Focusing on the goal of achieving a zero stoma rate, the study will provide valuable insights into the utility and outcomes of stoma creation. The results will support more informed and patient-centered clinical decisions in the management of ovarian cancer.