Laparoscopic sigmoid resection: a comparative experimental study between double-stapling and foreign material...

In current clinical practice the "double-stapling technique" is the standard for reanastomosis following minimally invasive sigmoid resection. In the present study, we compared the TESA technique (transient endoluminally stented anastomosis) with conventional stapled anastomosis and evaluated the effect of remnant foreign material on follow-up examination with endosonography. Laparoscopic sigmoid resection was performed in 12 pigs (mean weight 63+/-5.9 kg). Animals were randomly divided into two groups: In Group A, reanastomosis was performed following a standard technique using a 29-mm circular stapler. In Group B, the TESA technique using a resorbable radiopaque stent of polyglycolic acid was applied. The anastomosis was examined by plain x-ray on days 1, 7, and 14, and by contrast enema on day 42, respectively. Endosonography, macroscopic inspection, and histological evaluation of the anastomosis were performed on day 42. All anastomoses in group A were patent. In one animal in Group B stent displacement with subsequent leak of the anastomosis was observed. Circumferential length of the anastomosis on day 42 did not differ between the groups (Group A: 8.00+/-0.45 cm vs. Group B: 7.8+/-2.0 cm, p = 0.82). The duration of the operation was 130+/-27 minutes in Group A and 100+/-18 minutes in Group B (p = 0.06). Weight gain was equal: Group A: 24+/-9.6 kg vs. Group B: 24+/-5.0 kg, p = 0.74. Endosonography on day 42 postoperatively in the area of the anastomosis in group A was impaired due to metallic staples. TESA is a competitive method for reanastomosis following laparoscopic sigmoid resection. In contrast to the conventional technique, the anastomosis is free of foreign material 1 month after the operation, which facilitates follow-up examinations with endosonography as well as other imaging diagnostics.