Long-Term Results of Stapled and Hand-Sewn Anastomoses in Patients with Crohn’s Disease

AIM: This study aimed at determining the reoperation rates of patients with anastomoses for Crohn's disease. The outcome of patients undergoing stapled anastomoses was compared with that of patients having hand-sewn anastomoses. METHODS: Sixty-three patients undergoing intestinal resection for Crohn's disease at our institution from 1987 to 1996 were studied in a prospective, randomized trial. The group undergoing stapling comprised 30 patients and 37 anastomoses. The group with a hand-sewn anastomosis comprised 33 patients and 45 anastomoses. The median follow-up period was 87 (range 36-140) months. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in operative indications or patients' age and sex between the groups. There was a significant difference in cumulative recurrences between the groups (Cox-Mantel test: p = 0.022). CONCLUSION: A stapled anastomosis after resection for Crohn's disease may delay reoperation in patients with symptomatic recurrence.