Effect of diverting colostomy on breaking strength of anastomoses after resection of the left side of the colon. Studies in the rat.

In the present investigation, the effect of a proximal diverting colostomy on suture holding capacity and on anastomotic strength of the excluded left colon was studied. Suture holding capacity was increased 7 days after fecal diversion. Anastomotic strength development, however, was significantly delayed. These differences were accompanied by a diminished collagen response in the anastomotic region after fecal diversion. This might suggest impairment of healing in the excluded colon. The gross appearance of the anastomoses would, however, indicate that increased collagen formation and greater strength development in animals without colostomy is a result of more complicated healing.