This study was undertaken to review and summarize the complications of ileostomy and colostomy creation and subsequent closure. The English-language medical literature for at least the past 15 years was reviewed comprehensively. Complications of surgery for the creation of end, loop, and "end loop" stomas are presented. Technical factors, which might influence complication rates, are discussed. Optimal management of ostomy complications is presented, especially for peristomal hernias. Similarly, techniques and complications for stoma closure are analyzed. Stoma creation is not a trivial undertaking; careful surgical technique minimizes complications (which are relatively frequent), and promotes good ostomy function. Peristomal hernias are difficult to cure permanently. The morbidity of ileostomy and colostomy closure is also appreciable.