ABSTRACT

The effect of stapler use on anastomotic leakage (AL) is uncertain in right hemicolectomy and ileocolic anastomosis. In this study, the effect of hand -sewn or assisted anastomosis performed in our center on anastomotic leakage will be investigated and short-term mortality results will be presented.

The present study was planned as a retrospective review of the medical charts of patients who underwent right hemicolectomy and an ileocolic anastomosis for the treatment of right colon cancer. Patients 18 years and older, elective surgeries were included in the study. Emergency surgeries were excluded. Ileocolic anastomosis performed with staples or using hand-sewn technique was recorded. Anastomotic leakage and mortality rates at 1., and 6. postoperative months were compared.

Of the 101 patients who underwent right hemicolectomy for a right colon adenocarcinoma, 66 (65.3%) underwent hand-sewn anastomosis and 35 (34.7%) ileocolic anastomosis using staplers. Anastomotic leakage developed in one patient (1.5%) in the hand-sewn group and in two patients (5.7%) in the stapled anastomosis group, although the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.23). Mortality rates at 1 month and 6 months did not differ significantly between the groups.

The present study shows that a stapled ileocolic anastomosis after a right hemicolectomy doesn’t increase the risk of anastomotic leakage, and also has not any unfavorable effect on mortality in the short term.

Keywords: right hemicolectomy, ileocolic anastomosis, anastomotic leakage