This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:

The overall objective of this review is to evaluate whether mesh reinforcement of abdominal wall stomas affects the incidence of parastomal herniation without affecting mortality. More specific objectives for review include the following.

• Is mesh placement more effective in preventing parastomal herniation for certain stoma types (e.g. end vs loop, ileostomy vs colostomy)?

• Does mesh placement affect the incidence of surgical intervention for adverse symptoms related to parastomal hernia formation?

• Does mesh placement have an effect on total operative time or length of hospital stay?

• What is the incidence of mesh‐specific complications (i.e. stoma aperture stenosis/stricture, intestinal fistulation, mesh‐related infection (with/without reoperation) and mortality)?

• Does mesh placement have an influence on patient‐reported symptoms and postoperative quality of life (i.e. difficulty with bag application, leakage of stoma bag contents, nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating and parastomal discomfort)?

• What is the impact of the intervention on rehospitalisation/ambulatory visits required for parastomal hernia problems/treatment?