Abstract
An animal study was done to evaluate the safety of a sutureless colorectal anastomosis in irradiated bowel. Forty mongrel dogs received preoperative radiation with 5000 rads and then underwent a low anterior resection and anastomosis using either the EEA-31™ stapling device, a two-layer handsewn technique, or the biofragmentable anastomotic ring (BAR) 31-1.5 mm and BAR 31-2.0 mm devices. The anastomoses were then evaluated for early and late anastomotic healing and leaks. The results show four radiographic (three clinical) leaks (P<.05) in the BAR 31-1.5 mm group and one radiographic leak in the handsewn group. No leaks were detected in the EEA or BAR 31-2.0 mm groups. Results indicate that all three techniques can be done safely with this dose of radiation, and gap size (1.5 mm vs. 2.0 mm) is of critical importance when performing a BAR anastomosis in irradiated bowel.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 5-9 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Diseases of the Colon & Rectum |
Volume | 31 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 1988 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Anastomotic dehiscence
- Biofragmentable anastomotic ring
- Colorectal anastomosis
- Preoperative irradiation