Radiological study of anastomotic leakages following colorectal surgery

• Published in: Il Giornale di chirurgia 2008-11, Vol.29 (11-12), p.483-487
• Main Authors: Magistrelli, P, Bonfante, P F, Calcina, G, Bianchi, C, Ansaldo, V, Deidda, E, D'Ambra, L, Bianco, A, Berti, S, Falco, E
• Format: Article
• Language: Italian
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Anastomosis, Surgical - adverse effects; Colon - surgery; Colorectal Neoplasms - surgery; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Postoperative Complications - diagnostic imaging; Radiography; Rectum - surgery; Retrospective Studies
• ISSN: 0391-9005

The anastomotic leakage is one of the most serious complications following colorectal surgery. The incidence rate is between 3% and 21% considering the different experiences, pathology and surgical techniques. Our aim is to verify the role of radiological study in 45 patients with clinical and subclinical colorectal anastomotic leakage total anastomoses = 252). In 31 patients at risk, the operation was concluded with a loop ileostomy. The radiological study gastrografin enema was performed in all patients (26 symptomatic and 19 asymptomatic patients with loop ileostomy). The dehiscence incidence resulted 5.5%: 14 of 252 patients. In our experience the radiological study of selected colorectal anastomoses allowed to show the site and the flow of the leakage and to plan the proper management. In asymptomatic patients the study allowed to programme a specific follow up in patients with higher risk of postinflammatory stenosis or perhaps neoplastic relapse.