Describsing the features of computed tomography in diagnosting of anastomotic leak

SUMMARY

Purpose: Describe the features of anastomotic leak on computed tomography (CT).

Materials and Methods: Retrospective studies described case series of patients who were diagnosed anastomotic leak at University Medical Center at HCMC and Cho Ray hospital from December 2014 to June 2018, and had CT scan before surgery. The CT features of anastomotic leak were collected.

Results: There were 31 patients. Mean age 58, ratio male/female 1,8. Peri-anastomotic gas-fluid collection 58,1 %; density of peri-anastomotic fluid collection varies from 5 HU to 30 HU (mean # 20,3 HU); extraluminal gas in contact with the anastomosis 71,0 %. Only 1 case that has mural discontinuity sign (3,2 %). Intraluminal bowel contrast CT scan was used in 2 cases and both had extravasation (100 %).

Conclusion: CT scan is valuable in helping to diagnose anatomotic leak. Two most common and signficant signs in the diagnosis are perianastomotic gas-fluid collection and extra-luminal gas in contact with the anastomosis.

Key words:Anastomotic leak, computed tomography findings.