Comparative Evaluation of Conventional Method and Stapled Suture Technique for Intestinal Anastomosis in Dogs

This experimental study was conducted to compare the two different techniques of end-to-end anastomosis, hand-sewn vs stapled anastomosis, in the jejunum of dogs. After approval from the Animal Ethical Committee, the research study was tested on 12 healthy mongrel dogs, randomly divided into two different groups (A and B) comprising 6 dogs each. Conventional hand-sewn method of end-to-end anastomosis was applied on group A and stapled anastomosis was performed on the dogs of group-B, using the end-to-end anastomosis (EEA) circular stapling device. Based on physical observations and contrast radiographic findings, there was neither any leakage from the site of anastomosis nor any severe post operative complications in terms of peritonitis, septicaemia or shock. Upon exploratory laparotomy, no significant change was observed in the internal and external diameters at the site of anastomosis, between Groups A and B. However, the suturing time significantly decreased through application of stapled suturing technique (mean: 44.3±1.28**; P≤0.0002), as compared with the conventional suturing method (mean: 54.3±1.23). Based on the physiological parameters and radiographic evaluation, it was concluded that the method of stapled suturing is safe and convenient for use in dogs; the additional advantage of the ease in application makes suturing more rapid, decreases suturing time required, and minimizes chances of post-operative complications.