Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
anastomotic leak
Postoperative complication where a surgical connection between bowel segments fails, causing leakage.
Full Definition
Anastomotic leak is a serious postoperative complication occurring when a surgical connection (anastomosis) between two segments of bowel fails, allowing intestinal contents to leak into the peritoneal cavity. This complication can occur days to weeks after surgery and may present with abdominal pain, fever, elevated white blood cell count, or signs of peritonitis. Treatment often requires emergency surgical intervention for repair or diversion, and the condition carries significant morbidity and mortality.
Usage
Usage note: Often graded as minor or major based on clinical significance.
In Context
- "CT imaging revealed an anastomotic leak at the colorectal anastomosis." — Complication assessment
- "The patient required emergency surgery for anastomotic leak with peritonitis." — Surgical revision documentation
Also known as
anastomotic breakdown
anastomotic dehiscence
Don't confuse with
wound dehiscence
anastomotic stricture