[Incidence of, risk factors for, and prevention of intestinal leakage].

BACKGROUND

Intestinal anastomotic leakage represents a major complication in visceral surgery with relevant morbidity and mortality.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Based on a literature -search in Medline / PubMed the available data are presented, critically reviewed and summarised.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Beside optimisation of surgical technique, patient-dependent risk factors - such as relevant comorbidity, certain medications or previous radiochemotherapy - play a major role in the development of anastomotic leak-age. The effort for optimisation of these patient-dependent risk factors is not incorporated within the compensation scheme in German hospitals.