The EEA stapler in colorectal surgery: a Wellington experience.

The EEA stapler has been used at Wellington Hospital in 83 patients. The use of the instrument in 72 patients with colorectal disease is described. Fifty-one patients had malignant disease. Prior bowel preparation and perioperative antibiotics were used routinely. A 'low' anastomosis was performed in 26 patients. Complications relating to the integrity of the anastomosis occurred most frequently in low rectal cases and did not appear to be influenced by the presence or absence of a diverting colostomy. Tumour clearance was compromised (less than two centimetres) in 10 out of 23 patients with 'low' tumours. Two staple line recurrences occurred in this group.