A comparison of one layer and two layer techniques for colorectal anastomosis.

In a randomized prospective clinical trial and layer and two layer techniques have been compared in 92 patients undergoing colorectal anastomosis. The results were assessed radiologically by barium studies on the tenth postoperative day. There was no significant difference in the incidence of anastomotic breakdown with either technique when the anastomosis was performed above the pelvic peritoneal reflection. When the anastomosis was situated below the pelvic peritoneum the incidence of dehiscence was significantly greater when a two layer technique was used.