Reversal of loop ileostomy under spinal anaesthesia.

Background And Aims: Traditionally, loop ileostomy is reversed under general anaesthetic. In patients with severe cardiorespiratory disease, many surgeons opt for a one-stage, low Hartmann's procedure to avoid a second general anaesthetic to reverse a defunctioning stoma. Closure of loop ileostomy under spinal anaesthetic would allow high-risk patients to avoid a permanent stoma and a general anaesthetic.