Estimated Rate of Post-Operative Anastomotic Leak Following Colorectal Resection Surgery: A Systematic Review

Purpose: Anastomotic leak following colorectal resection surgery is associated with short and long-term negative patient outcomes, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. Various patient related and surgical factors are known to contribute to the development of postoperative anastomotic leaks. This study systematically reviewed the literature to assess the incidence of post-operative leak and identify patient factors associated with the development of leaks. Methods: Articles published from 1/1/2003 – 8/8/2015 reporting on post-operative anastomotic leak following colorectal resection surgery were identified in the Medline and Embase databases. The rate of post-operative leak, as well as patient and surgical characteristics, were extracted.