anastomotic leak
Pronunciation: an-as-tuh-MOT-ik leek
A serious postoperative complication where surgical connections between bowel segments fail to heal properly, causing content spillage.
Full Definition
Anastomotic leak represents one of the most feared complications following gastrointestinal surgery, occurring when the surgical joining of bowel segments breaks down, allowing intestinal contents to escape into the peritoneal cavity or adjacent tissues. Risk factors include poor tissue perfusion, tension at the anastomosis, malnutrition, and previous radiation therapy. Clinical presentation ranges from subtle signs like prolonged ileus to catastrophic sepsis requiring emergency intervention. The condition significantly impacts patient mortality, morbidity, and long-term functional outcomes. Editorial documentation requires precise description of leak location, severity, and management approach.
Usage
Usage note: Use as compound noun; specify anatomical location when known (colorectal anastomotic leak).
In Context
- "The patient developed signs of anastomotic leak on postoperative day 5 with fever and abdominal pain." — Surgical complication note
- "CT findings were consistent with contained anastomotic leak requiring conservative management." — Radiology interpretation