Emerging Trends in the Etiology, Prevention, and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Anastomotic Leakage

J Gastrointest Surg. 2016 Dec;20(12):2035-2051. doi: 10.1007/s11605-016-3255-3. Epub 2016 Sep 16.

Abstract

Anastomotic leaks represent one of the most alarming complications following any gastrointestinal anastomosis due to the substantial effects on post-operative morbidity and mortality of the patient with long-lasting effects on the functional and oncologic outcomes. There is a lack of consensus related to the definition of an anastomotic leak, with a variety of options for prevention and management. A number of patient-related and technical risk factors have been found to be associated with the development of an anastomotic leak and have inspired the development of various preventative measures and technologies. The International Multispecialty Anastomotic Leak Global Improvement Exchange group was convened to establish a consensus on the definition of an anastomotic leak as well as to discuss the various diagnostic, preventative, and management measures currently available.

Keywords: Consensus; Gastrointestinal anastomotic leakage; International Multispecialty Anastomotic Leak Global Improvement Exchange; Morbidity; Review.

Publication types

  • Consensus Development Conference
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anastomosis, Surgical / adverse effects
  • Anastomotic Leak / diagnosis
  • Anastomotic Leak / etiology*
  • Anastomotic Leak / prevention & control
  • Anastomotic Leak / therapy*
  • Consensus
  • Digestive System Surgical Procedures / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors
  • Terminology as Topic