This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of patients who were not independent in stoma management following radical cystectomy, as well as the changes in stoma care providers over time.

A total of 98 patients who underwent radical cystectomy between September 2017 and May 2024 were included. Patients who underwent neobladder reconstruction (n=2), were on dialysis (n=3), or received open surgery (n=7) were excluded. The patients were classified into two groups based on their level of independence in stoma management at discharge: the can group (independent) and the cannot group (requiring partial or full assistance).

The can group comprised 77.9% (n=67) of patients, while the cannot group comprised 22.1% (n=19). Predictive factors for stoma management dependence at discharge included age [≥75 years, odds ratio (OR) 3.21, P=0.0349; ≥80 years, OR 6.33, P=0.0012], cutaneous ureterostomy (OR 5.66, P=0.0021), and dementia (OR 22.0, P<0.0001). At one year postoperatively, none of the patients in the cannot group had achieved independence in stoma management. Conversely, 13.6% of patients in the can group had become partially dependent, particularly those with cutaneous ureterostomy (P=0.034).

Predictive factors for stoma management dependence were older age, cutaneous ureterostomy, and dementia. Notably, 13.6% of patients who were independent at discharge required assistance within one year postoperatively, underscoring the importance of continued support systems after discharge.