Parastomal hernia (PSH) can occur after an ostomy operation, leading to a significant morbidity for patients.Considering the difficulties to manage this complication, prevention measures should be investigated.Purpose: Assessing the efficacy of an ostomy support belt (Brava®) in preventing the development of PSH after ostomy operation.We conducted a retrospective observational study collecting data of 238 patients who underwent ostomy operation.Of them, 103 patients didn't wear the support belt and 135 patients have worn it since hospital discharge.Differences in incidence of PSH between the two groups were evaluated, and a multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify associations between independent risk factors and PSH onset.PSH occurred more frequently in patients who didn't wear the belt compared with patients who have worn it immediately after the hospital discharge (P=0.0015).Risk factors associated with PSH onset were non-use of the support belt (P=0.0005) and colostomy (P=0.0193).Preoperative design and emergency surgery were protective factors (P=0.0002 and P=0.0017 respectively), whereas age and gender were not associated with PSH development.The use of Brava® Ostomy Support Belt seems to be an effective preventive measure for PSH development.Further studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of the belt.
