Single-layer anastomosis of the colon and rectum

A total of 116 one-layer end-to-end anastomoses of the colon and the rectum in 112 patients were studied. Three patients died postoperatively (2.6 per cent). Significant disruption of anastomosis requiring a diverting colostomy occurred in five patients. The study is presented to draw attention to the safety of the single-layer anastomosis.