Int J Gastrointest Interv.  2024 Jan;13(1):11-15. 10.18528/ijgii240002.

Use of cryopreserved, ultra-thick amniotic membrane allograft for colorectal and intestinal anastomoses

• John CB

• KMID: 2553212
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.18528/ijgii240002

Abstract

Background
Anastomotic leak (AL) is one of the most feared complications following intestinal surgery and is associated with increased complications, costs, length of hospital stay, and mortality. While many pre-clinical animal model studies have successfully demonstrated the efficacy of amniotic membrane (AM) in preventing AL, its clinical utility is less reported.
Methods
A single-center, retrospective study was performed on patients who underwent intestinal surgery followed by end-to-end or side-by-side single layer anastomosis and placement of cryopreserved, ultra-thick AM. Post-operative outcomes were assessed including time to first defecation, length of hospital stay, and complications, including incidence of AL.
Results
Eleven consecutive patients (7 male, 4 female) underwent open (n = 2) or laparoscopic (n = 9) resection of the sigmoid (n = 6), cecum (n = 2), ascending colon (n = 1), rectum (n = 1), and small bowel (n = 1). Surgery was uneventful in all cases. The time to first defecation was 3.5 ± 2.1 days. After an average follow up of 65.3 ± 42.0 days, none of the patients suffered an AL nor required another colorectal procedure.
Conclusion
These preliminary findings suggest the use of cryopreserved, ultra-thick AM following intestinal surgery is safe and may be beneficial in reducing the incidence of AL and post-operative complications. Larger prospective, randomized trials are warranted.

Keyword

Amnion; Anastomosis, surgical; Colorectal surgery; General surgery; Umbilical cord