Is microvessel density correlated with anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection?

Background/aims: Anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection may be the result of poor vascular supply from the proximal anastomotic loop. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between colonic microvessel density and anastomotic breakdown.

Methodology: Between 2006 and 2009, a consecutive series of 81 patients underwent double-stapled low anterior resection followed by a colorectal anastomosis.