Factors influencing anastomoses

Anastomotic healing is influenced by many factors and it is difficult to assess the influence of any single factor especially in the clinical situation. Healing depends on fibroblastic response and on the formation of plentiful collagen in the submucosa round the anastomosis. The general, specific and local factors influencing anastomotic healing are listed in Table 49.2.

The surgeon should be aware of good techniques relating to the main sites of anastomoses (Table 49.3).