Single-layer continuous colorectal anastomosis

Since the first successful resection of a colonic neoplasm was carried out in 1823, many attempts have been made to find the ideal technique for bowel anastomosis, in respect both of the surgical technique employed and the suture material used. We have finally adopted a single layer anastomosis with a continuous polypropylene suture. To out knowledge, no series of such anastomoses has so far been reported, and we now review our technique, first described by Allen in 1979, and our very satisfactory experiences following our adoption of it for virtually all colorectal anastomoses above the peritoneal reflection.