Effect of pedunculated seromuscular flap on bursting strength of intestinal anastomosis after corticosteroid treatment.

Abstract

This study was designed to investigate the protective effect of a pedunculated seromuscular flap on intestinal anastomosis after corticosteroid treatment. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups, and all animals underwent intestinal anastomosis. Two groups, with or without seromuscular flap wrapping, received 5 mg cortisone acetate, and two groups received placebo (saline) preoperatively for 16 days. Anastomotic strength was defined as bursting pressure (in millimeters of mercury). The pedunculated seromuscular flap was prepared from a segment of intestine next to the anastomosis. Intestinal bursting strength at the anastomotic site was measured at Postoperative Day 8. The anastomotic bursting strength was significantly lower in the steroid groups at Postoperative Day 8 (P < 0.01). The pedunculated seromuscular flap increased the strength of the anastomosis both in the steroid and control groups (P < 0.05). The adverse effect of corticosteroids on intestinal anastomoses may be prevented by a pedunculated seromuscular flap.