Colon to colon, small bowel to colon and colorectal anastomoses with the compression anastomosis ring NiTi CAR™ 27

Background-Aim The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the NiTi CAR™ 27 Compression Anastomosis Ring in colon or rectum resection. Methods During the period 9/2008–8/2010, anastomosis was scheduled to be performed on 41 patients (23 females, 18 males, aged 49–86 years/mean 72) using the NiTi CAR™ 27 device, 36 of whom underwent colectomy for cancer and 5 reconstructions for previews Hartmann’s procedure. Only in one case did application of the device fail, due to anatomical reasons. The colon resections included: Right hemicolectomy (5 patients), left colectomy (1), sigmoidectomy (10), low anterior resection (20). Ten patients among the first 14 had colonic endoscopy at 2–3 months after surgery. All cancer patients were scheduled for colonoscopy at 12 months after surgery. Result The application of the gun was similar to that of circular staplers. No intraoperative or postoperative technique-related complications were recorded, including anastomotic problems, such as clinically apparent anastomotic leakage, bleeding or stenosis. Postoperatively, the median hospital stay was 9.5 days (9–13). One patient died on the 13th day due to myocardial infarction. Mild complications were encountered in 16 patients (40%). Oral feeding started after the 4th day. Anastomotic rings were uneventfully expelled per anus within 7–16 days (mean 9.3) as documented by plain x-rays. Patients examined colonoscopically at 2–3 and 12 months displayed a satisfactory anastomosis with excellent healing. Conclusion The use of NiTi CAR™ 27 Compression Anastomosis Ring is safe and efficient in the construction of colorectal and colon and small bowel to colon anastomoses.