Transanal treatment of strictured rectal anastomosis with a circular stapler device: simple and safe

BACKGROUND: Several methods of treatment for benign anastomotic strictures after low anterior resection have been described. We report and illustrate a simple, safe, and effective method for treating benign rectal anastomotic strictures by means of a transanal circular stapling device. METHODS: Three patients with a clinically significant rectal stricture underwent transanal resection of the fibrous stenosis by a circular stapler device (CEEA stapler 29 or 31 mm calibre; Tyco Co., USA). RESULTS: No complications occurred. Patients were discharged from the hospital on the first postoperative day. After a follow-up period of 8, 12 and 14 months respectively, no recurrence of the stricture was observed. The stool habits of all 3 patients were normal with 1-3 formed, asymptomatic fecal passages per day. CONCLUSION: Transanal reanastomosis by means of a circular stapler device is a simple and effective method. However, a larger number of patients need to be treated with this relatively new method to draw further conclusions.