Colonic ischaemia and anastomotic healing.

The leakage rate of colonic anastomoses may be as high as 13%. A good blood supply is of paramount importance. However tissue perfusion may be at risk in the elderly and in low colorectal anastomoses. We have tested the effect of isoxsuprine, an agent which reduces blood viscosity, and is an alpha-adrenergic antagonist and beta-adrenergic agonist, on the healing process in normal and ischaemic rat colon. Both bursting pressure and hydroxyproline concentration were significantly improved in compromised ischaemic colon in animals treated with isoxsuprine. Isoxsuprine may improve healing in poorly perfused colonic anastomoses.