[Peroperative "lavage" and primary anastomosis in acute left-sided colon ileus]

A description of technique, course and results of operation for left-sided obstruction of the colon with primary resection, perioperative lavage of the colon and primary anastomosis.

Retrospective examination of case records.

From January 1st 1994-December 31st 1997 eight operations were performed including primary resection, perioperative lavage and primary anastomosis.

No anastomotic leaks were found. One patient died five days postoperatively due to cardiac complications. Three patients had postoperative cardiopulmonary complications treated medically. One patient had rupture of the fascia, was reoperated, experienced wound infection, transient serum elevation of liver enzymes and underwent ERCP with papillotomy and extraction of stones from the common bile duct two months postoperatively.

In this small series the technique has appeared safe, thus confirming previous reports.