BACKGROUND: Colostomy is one of the commonest life saving procedures done worldwide with an intention of either decompression of an obstructed colon or diversion of stool. Indications may vary from region to region. Attending morbidity and mortality is significant. the objective of this study was to Determine the common indications and types of colostomy, and outcomes of patients operated at SPHMMC METHODS: A retrospective medical records of patients, operation log book and nursing records

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... w was done in a two-year period between January 2011 and December 2013 at the College Teaching Hospital, St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical, Addis Ababa. RESULTS: During the two years, 253 colostomies were done and 219(86.6%) cases used for analysis. Of these, 151(68.9%) were males. Age ranged from 15 to 85 years with a mean of 50.8. Most of the surgeries, 196(89.5%), were done for emergency conditions. The three most common indications were gangrenous sigmoid volvulus, 102(46.6%), colorectal cancers, 46(21.0%, and abdominal injuries, 28(12.8%). The commonest type of colostomy done was Hartman's colostomy, 179(81.7.1%), gangrenous sigmoid volvulus being the predominant indication, 102(57%). Loop colostomy constituted 35(16%) of all the colostomies. Penetrating abdominal injuries was the main indication 15(42.9%). Overall, 157 complications were seen on 106(48.4%) patients. The most common complications were surgical site infection, 51(23.3%), hospital acquired pneumonia, (10.5%), and wound dehiscence, 17(7.8%). The mortality rate was 9.6% (21). CONCLUSION: Gangrenous sigmoid volvulus is the leading indication for colostomy. Mortality and morbidity rates are high. Aggressive resuscitation, early prompt operation and post op close follow-up should be emphasized.