[The application of biodegradable anastomosis ring Valtrac for intestinal anastomosis]

In 1985 a biofragmentable anastomosis ring (BAR) Valtrac was introduced for intestinal anastomoses. From August 1994 trough March 1998, 49 intestinal anastomoses were performed in 44 patients: there were 28 jejunoileostomies, 8 colocolostomies and 3 gastrojejunostomies. In 5 patients after total gastrectomy, two anastomoses with the use of Valtrac ring were made during the same operation. The patient group consisted of 26 women and 18 men, aged 14 to 81 years (mean age: 54 years); there were 13 emergency and 31 elective procedures. The reasons for the operations were: cancer--35 cases, pancreatic cyst drainage--4 cases and reconstructive procedures in the digestive tract--5 cases. First intestinal gas passage and defecation were monitored in all patients; control X-ray was performed on the 10th postoperative day. No mortality nor serious complications were observed in the postoperative period. In an 81-year old patient, an inconsiderable leakage was found at the anastomotic site. This was successfully managed in the second operation.

1. Valtrac is an alternative method for intestinal anastomoses. 2. The anastomotic technique is atraumatic and easy even for an unexperienced surgeon.