Effects of cyclooxygenase inhibition on anastomotic healing following large bowel resection in a rabbit model--a randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled trial

Purpose We performed an experimental study in a rabbit model to investigate the effects of a selective Cox-2 inhibitor (Valdecoxib) on anastomotic healing following large bowel resection after 1 week. Materials and methods Eighty New Zealand white rabbits were randomized into four groups and underwent a colon resection with end-to-end anastomosis. Group 1 (n = 20) was treated with Valdecoxib, group 2 with Metamizole (Novalgin®), group 3 with Resveratrol (specific Cox-1 inhibitor), or a placebo vehicle with similar volume (group 4). Anastomotic healing was tested at the seventh postoperative day by measurement of the bursting pressure in vitro. Immunohistochemical staining of the anastomotic site was performed with polyclonal antibodies (CD31). Results There were no significant differences in anastomotic dehiscence, bursting pressure, or vessel density between the treatment and control groups. Conclusion The application of Valdecoxib does not influence anastomotic healing or new vessel formation in the anastomotic region following large bowel resection.