Experience performing 64 consecutive stapled intestinal anastomoses in small children and infants

J Pediatr Surg. 2011 Jan;46(1):128-30. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2010.09.076.

Abstract

Background/purpose: Intestinal anastomosis in children has traditionally been performed using hand-sewn techniques. Little data exist evaluating the efficacy of stapled intestinal anastomoses in the infant and pediatric populations.

Methods: A review of a 5-year experience using a mechanical stapler to treat 64 consecutive children requiring intestinal anastomoses was performed. An intestinal stapler was used to complete a side-to-side functional end-to-end anastomosis. Postoperative outcomes and modifications made to the technique were identified.

Results: Since 2004, 64 children (median age, 3 months; range, newborn to 24 months) underwent procedures requiring intestinal anastomosis. Twenty-six children (41%) were 1 week or less in age. Twenty-seven children (42%) underwent a stoma closure using a stapler. Thirty-seven children (58%) underwent bowel resection and stapled anastomosis in treating a variety of surgical disorders. Complications included wound infection (n = 2) and anastomotic stricture (n = 1). No issues suggesting anastomotic dilatation and subsequent stasis/overgrowth were identified.

Conclusions: These results suggest that stapled bowel anastomosis is an effective approach applicable to a variety of surgical diseases in newborns and infants.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Anastomosis, Surgical / instrumentation
  • Anastomosis, Surgical / methods*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Constriction, Pathologic / etiology
  • Constriction, Pathologic / surgery
  • Digestive System Surgical Procedures / instrumentation
  • Digestive System Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Intestines / surgery*
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology
  • Postoperative Complications / surgery
  • Surgical Stapling / instrumentation
  • Surgical Stapling / methods*
  • Suture Techniques
  • Treatment Outcome