bowel anastomosis
Pronunciation: uh-nas-tuh-MOH-sis
Surgical connection of two segments of bowel following resection during gynecologic oncology procedures.
Full Definition
Bowel anastomosis is a surgical technique used to reconnect segments of the gastrointestinal tract after resection, commonly required during extensive cytoreductive surgery for advanced gynecologic malignancies. The procedure involves joining two healthy bowel ends using either hand-sewn sutures or surgical staplers. Types include end-to-end, side-to-side, or end-to-side configurations. Successful anastomosis requires adequate blood supply, tension-free connection, and proper surgical technique to prevent complications such as leak, stricture, or obstruction.
Usage
Usage note: Plural form is 'anastomoses' not 'anastomosis'.
In Context
- "A primary bowel anastomosis was performed following sigmoid resection." — operative report
- "The colorectal surgeon performed the bowel anastomosis after tumor debulking was completed." — multidisciplinary operative note