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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
The C-seal: A Biofragmentable Drain Protecting the Stapled Colorectal Anastomosis from Leakage
Published on: November 4, 2010
[Anastomotic leakage following bowel resections for colon cancer: multivariate analysis of risk factors]
R Kube1, P Mroczkowski, R Steinert
1Klinik für Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Gefässchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum A.ö.R., Leipziger Strasse 44, Magdeburg, Germany. rainer.kube@med.ovgu.de
Background:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and risk factors associated with anastomotic leakage after colon cancer surgery using data compiled in the nationwide German qualitative multi-center study "Colon/Rectum Cancer" (WGCRC).
Methods:
From 01/01/2000 to 12/31/2004 data recorded from patients with anastomotic leakages were evaluated to determine independent predictors of leakage using logistic regression analysis.
Results:
A total of 28,271 patients underwent colon resection with anastomoses and anastomotic leaks occurred in 3.0% (n=844). Multivariate analysis identified long duration of surgery, a high ASA score, male gender, obstruction, left-sided tumor, cardiovascular hepatic comorbidity, single-layer hand suture, anastomoses using the biofragmentable Valtrac ring, intraoperative complications and BMI>30 kg/m(2) as risk factors for postoperative occurrence of anastomotic leakage.
Conclusions:
Even though the rate of anastomotic leaks in patients with anastomoses after resection for colon cancer is low, it remains a significant complication, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The knowledge of risk factors should be considered in perioperative decision-making regarding anastomotic technique and indications for Hartmann's procedure.
