Interrupted Single-layer Suture Technique in Esophageal Anastomosis Using Monofilament Polypropylene Suture

Sung, Si Chan; Pyun, Seung Hwan

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Although various anastomotic techniques and suture materials have been used in esophageal anastomosis, anastomotic leakage and stenosis are still somewhat frequent and serious complications when compared to other intestinal anastomoses. We have used interrupted single-layer suture technique using monofilament polypropylene suture in various esophageal anastomoses, including repair of the esophageal atresia, since 1990. Methods and method: We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy of this technique on postoperative leakage and stenosis in several esophageal reconstructions. The esophageal reconstructions using this technique were performed in 90 patients at Dong-A University Hospital from April 1990 through December 1996. RESULTS: Anastomotic leakage occurred in 5 patients (5.6%) with one operative death. Stenosis at the anastomotic site occurred in 15 patients (n=86, 17.4%), which was most common in esophagogastrostomy (22%) and least common in esophagocolostomy (5%). This result was comparable to other methods including the autosuture technique.
CONCLUSIONS
We concluded that this suture technique in esophageal anastomosis can be used with reasonable results in various esophageal reconstructions including correction of the esophageal atresia.