Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

In which of the following is a loop colostomy done?

1. Abdominoperineal resection

2. Bowel decompression

3. Total colectomy

4. Hemicolectomy

The correct answer is: Bowel decompression

A loop colostomy is specifically indicated for bowel decompression. This procedure is typically performed when there is a need to relieve an obstruction or to decompress the bowel, allowing for the passage of contents when a complete or partial bowel obstruction is present. The loop colostomy creates an opening in the abdominal wall where a loop of the colon is brought out, allowing for the diversion of stool. In contrast, the other conditions mentioned, such as abdominoperineal resection, total colectomy, and hemicolectomy, often involve more extensive surgical interventions that typically do not utilize a loop colostomy for immediate bowel decompression. Instead, these procedures may involve resection of bowel segments or alteration of the bowel continuity and may result in permanent or end colostomies instead.