Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
anastomosis
Pronunciation: uh-NAS-tuh-moh-sis
A surgical connection created between two tubular structures, such as blood vessels or segments of bowel.
Full Definition
In surgical oncology, anastomosis refers to the surgical joining of two previously separate tubular structures, most commonly seen in bowel resection procedures where healthy segments of intestine are reconnected after tumor removal. The integrity of anastomotic connections is critical for patient outcomes, and anastomotic leaks represent a significant postoperative complication. Different techniques may be used including end-to-end, end-to-side, or side-to-side configurations depending on the clinical scenario.
Usage
Usage note: Plural form is anastomoses. Ensure proper spelling in surgical reports.
In Context
- "The operative report documented a tension-free colorectal anastomosis following sigmoid resection." — Surgical case report
- "Postoperative imaging revealed no evidence of anastomotic leak at the gastrojejunostomy site." — Radiology report
Also known as
surgical connection
bowel anastomosis
Contrasted with
disconnection
separation
Don't confuse with
anastomoses
arteriovenous malformation