Restoration of intestinal continuity following Hartmann's procedure: The Lothian experience 1987-1992

Restoration of intestinal continuity following Hartmann's procedure is associated with high morbidity (anastomotic leak rates 4–16 per cent) and mortality (0–4 per cent) rates. A total of 178 patients, under the care of seven different surgical units, underwent reversal of Hartmann's procedure during a 5‐year period, representing the largest series yet reported. The mortality rate of the study group was 0·6 per cent, the anastomotic leak rate was 3·9 per cent and the incidence of anastomotic stricture was 6·7 per cent. The median time interval between resection and reversal was 92 days and no relation was found between timing and complications. Anastomotic stricture occurred significantly more commonly in stapled than in sutured anastomoses (P