Living with and without an intestinal stoma: Factors that promote psychological well-being and self-care: A cross-sectional study.

Aims: This study compared those living with and without an intestinal stoma in relation to physical and psychological health, stress and coping, quality of life and resilience. Also, identifying factors that could be used to promote better self-care in stoma patients in the future.

Design: A cross-sectional and comparative study design was employed.

Strategies to reduce treatment costs of peristomal skin complications.

Peristomal skin complications (PSCs) are common and troublesome and the consequences are substantial both for the patient and from a health-economic viewpoint. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate that early detection and treatment of PSCs, combined with the use of a correctly fitted and appropriate pouching system, can reduce treatment costs-in the UK, it is estimated to save £28.1m annually.

Complications of intestinal stomas.

Background: Stomal complications are prevalent and associated with considerable morbidity. This study examined the incidence and potential risk factors for their development.

Methods: The time of onset and presence of ten specific complications were recorded for patients with an intestinal stoma over 10 years at two urban hospitals.

The 'straight to test' initiative reduces both diagnostic and treatment waiting times for colorectal cancer: outcomes after 2 years.

Aim: This study aimed to determine whether a 'straight to test'(STT) strategy for 2-week wait (2 wk) referrals for suspected colorectal cancer (CRC) reduced the time to diagnosis and treatment for patients with CRC.

Method: Consecutive 2-week referrals for suspected CRC over a period of 2 years from February 2007 were analysed. The times to the first diagnostic test and treatment and the cancers identified were analysed for those going to STT or the outpatient clinic.

Management of idiopathic anal fistula using cross-linked collagen: a prospective phase 1 study.

Aim: Fibrin glue and porcine intestinal submucosa are used in novel sphincter-preserving techniques to heal anal fistulae. However, their success is highly variable and decreases with the length of follow up. The aim of this study was to assess the safety, feasibility and potential efficacy of another novel agent, cross-linked collagen, in two different physical formats, to heal anal fistulae.