Unraveling the role of computed tomography derived body composition metrics on anastomotic leakages rates in rectal cancer surgery: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction: Anastomotic leakage is a major concern following total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer, affecting oncological outcomes, morbidity an treatment costs. Body composition has been suggested to influence anastomotic leakage rates. However, literature on how body composition impact anastomotic leakage rates is conflicting.