A comparison of stapled and sutured anastomoses in gastric operations

To compare the results of sutured and stapled anastomoses in the performance of gastric operations, 112 consecutive patients, operated upon by the same group of surgeons, were reviewed. Of 80 gastric resections, 44 were done with conventionally sutured anastomoses, while 36 had stapled anastomoses. Of 42 gastrojejunostomies without resection, 18 were sutured and 24 stapled. The incidence of leaks, bleeding and stasis was similar for stapled and sutured procedures. This was true for both gastric resections and gastrojejunal anastomoses without resection. No significant differences were noted between the stapled and sutured procedures with regard to operative time and length of postoperative stay. Patients in the sutured gastrectomy group regained intestinal function more rapidly than when the staples were used, 3.9 compared with 5.1 days. Stapling devices can be safely used to perform gastric operations. Complication rates with these devices are the same as those noted for more conventional suture techniques. Data from this study do not substantiate claims that stapling instruments reduce operative time or speed recovery of intestinal function.