[An original method of making a purse for circular mechanical anastomoses]

A simple and reliable procedure applicable to all segments of the digestive tract, except the oesophagus, is described. A series of superficial U-shaped stitches is inserted along the upper edge of a Kocher's forceps that clamps the entire width of the intestine. The intestine is then cut with a scalpel along the lower edge of the forceps, i.e. on the side opposite to the sutures. After the forceps is released, a purse about 2 mm distant from the intestinal opening is obtained. When the purse is tightened the mucosa, crushed by clamping, does not protrude and therefore does not interfere with the mechanical anastomosis.