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 mmvs. 2.0 mm) is of critical importance when performing a BAR anastomosis in irradiated bowel.
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Read at the meeting of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, Washington, D.C., April 5 to 10, 1987.
Supported by a research grant from Davis and Geck, American Cyanamid Company.
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Don Smith, A., Bubrick, M.P., Mestitz, S.T. et al. Evaluation of the biofragmentable anastomotic ring following preoperative irradiation to the rectosigmoid in dogs. Dis Colon Rectum 31, 5–9 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02552561
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02552561