Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
anastomosis
Pronunciation: uh-NAS-tuh-moh-sis
Surgical connection between two tubular structures, such as blood vessels or bowel segments.
Full Definition
An anastomosis is a surgical technique used to join two hollow or tubular structures together, commonly performed in gastrointestinal, vascular, and urologic surgery. The connection can be end-to-end, end-to-side, or side-to-side depending on surgical requirements. Proper technique is critical as anastomotic complications like leaks or strictures can be life-threatening in critically ill patients.
Usage
Usage note: Plural form is 'anastomoses'; avoid confusion with 'anastomotic leak' which is a complication.
In Context
- "A tension-free anastomosis was created between the jejunum and ileum." — operative report
- "The vascular anastomosis showed good flow on intraoperative Doppler." — surgical note
Also known as
surgical connection
surgical join
Contrasted with
disconnection
division
Don't confuse with
anastomotic leak
stricture