Variations on the precolostomy.
The precolostomy as previously described is now infrequently used since the performance of divided colostomy with exteriorization of both segments at separate sites is usually associated with a more functional colostomy. This precolostomy concept has potential variations which have not been previously emphasized. We have used one of these in a patient with a radiation induced rectosigmoid lesion. This variation and the others described for patients with inoperable carcinoma of the esophagus and stomach may provide improved palliation.