Variations of the renal function parameters in rectal cancer patients with a defunctioning loop ileostomy

Purpose The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of the temporary loop ileostomy on renal function and also to assess the factors associated with the change in renal function observed between the index surgery (the moment of the radical surgical procedure) and the closure of the ileostomy (the moment of the secondary surgical act of suppression of the ileostomy). Methods A total of 69 rectal cancer patients from a single referral surgical unit who had a loop ileostomy during low anterior resection of the rectum were included in this study. Serum creatinine levels were evaluated, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated prior to index surgery and closure of the ileostomy. Results During this time interval, there was a significant decrease in eGFR levels (mean difference − 4.5 mL/min/1.73 m 2 , 95% CI − 7.8 to − 1.3 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ), and also a significant increase in the serum creatinine values (mean difference 0.07, 95% CI 0.02–0.12 mg/dL). The eGFR decrease was more pronounced in diabetic patients, in those with a baseline Charlson Comorbidity Index score ≥ 1 or in those that received chemotherapy. In a multivariable regression analysis, the use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy was the only variable significantly associated with the change in eGFR levels between the two surgical interventions. Conclusion Renal function impairment is an important event that the surgeon has to take into consideration when deciding upon opting for a loop ileostomy to temporarily defunction a colorectal anastomosis.