The effect of omega-3 fatty acid and ascorbic acid on healing of ischemic colon anastomoses.

PURPOSE Many systemic and local factors contribute to gastrointestinal tract anastomoses dehiscence, which is a serious and potentially fatal postoperative complication. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of omega-3 fatty acid and ascorbic acid on the healing of ischemic colon anastomosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS 40 Wistar Albino rats weighing between 180 and 220 g were divided into four groups. Groups were assigned as follows; Group 1 (control): anastomosis and no treatment, Group 2: anastomosis plus ascorbic acid, Group 3: anastomosis plus omega-3 fatty acid, and Group 4: anastomosis plus ascorbic acid and omega-3 fatty acid. Colon anastomoses was were performed in all rats. All animals were sacrificed on the 5th postoperative day. Healing of the anastomoses was assessed by measuring the burst pressures (BP) and hydroxyproline levels. RESULTS No mortality was observed and perianastomotic abscesses were not noted in any rats. The BP was significantly higher in the ascorbic acid plus omega-3 fatty acid combination group than the other groups (p < 0.05). The hydroxyproline levels were significantly high in ascorbic acid plus omega-3 fatty acid combination group than the other groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acid and ascorbic acid improved colonic anastomoses healing. Ascorbic acid and omega-3 fatty acid enhance the colonic wound healing process by additive action.