Early predictors of anastomotic leaks after colectomy

An anastomotic leak after colorectal surgery is associated with significant morbidity and decreased survival. Our aim was to identify the early predictors of anastomotic leaks. The records of patients undergoing restorative resection for colorectal disease from January 2000 to November 2005 were reviewed. Demographics, clinical events, and laboratory parameters were recorded. A total of 311 patients were included. An anastomotic leak was identified in 25 patients (8%). A leak was suspected and diagnosis confirmed at a mean of 10 +/- 1 days postoperatively. More respiratory and neurological events occurred in patients with an anastomotic leak (p < 0.001). These events occurred early in the postoperative course and were usually the first signs and symptoms of a leak. More patients with a leak had absence of bowel activity by postoperative day 6 compared to patients without a leak (p < 0.0001). Elevations of the white blood cell count or temperature were a late finding. The earliest clinical predictors of an anastomotic leak are pulmonary and/or neurological. Awareness of these findings might help in early diagnosis and treatment of an anastomotic leak.