Facilitating low colorectal anastomosis. Preliminary results.

Low anterior resection with a stapled anastomosis is the operation of choice for almost all rectal lesions in which the sphincter can be safely preserved. We have reported the results of a new technique using the EEA stapler. This method is easy and safe, it eliminates the use of a low pursestring suture, avoids spillage, and keeps contamination to a minimum. It also allows the joining of bowel segments of disparate sizes. The results of this technique used in 16 patients with colorectal anastomoses are encouraging.