[Prospective assessment study of 586 consecutive continuous, single layer, extra-mucosal colon anastomoses].

22 Swiss hospitals participated in a multicenter trial testing the acceptance and safety of a continuous single layer end-to-end colonic anastomosis for all mobile segments of the colon, i.e. above the peritoneal reflexion. No cases in elective or emergency surgery have been excluded. During one year other techniques have been totally dropped from the participating centers. Among 545 patients with 586 anastomoses in all centers participating during one full year there were only two clinical leaks. All participating hospitals have after this one year continued to use this technique. Many have expanded it to small bowel and gastric surgery.