12. Gastrojejunal anastomosis
a. In the gastrojejunal anastomosis, the duodenal stump must be closed immediately since this anastomosis is achieved under the condition that the stump be closed.
b. In the gastroduodenal anastomosis, the duodenal stump must be preserved.
In certain cases, the duodenal stump cannot be utilized for an anastomosis, nor can it be adequately closed.
If a gastrojejunal anastomosis is intended, the duodenal stump is closed.
The use of a transecting linear stapler (55 mm, blue cartridge) is simple, quick and secure.
The stapler achieves hemostasis, water-tightness and duodenal transection, and avoids contamination of the operative field since the organ is not opened.
With the use of a non-transecting linear stapler (55 mm, blue cartridge), closure of the duodenal stump is performed in a single operative step. An extra running suture is not necessary since this stapler applies 3 rows of staples. The stapler is fired and a clamp is placed at stomach level.
The transection and suture of the duodenum may both be performed manually.
Two rigid right-angled clamps are applied on both sides of the transection line. An interrupted or extra-mucosal running suture is performed to close the stump.
Most authors further bury the suture line by applying a second row of interrupted sutures or fashioning a purse-string closure. In this case, the duodenal wall must be at least 2.5 cm long (which is more than that required for the use of a stapling device).
• Dangers and variations
The transecting linear stapler only applies 2 rows of staples. An extra running suture must be performed to bury the staples applied on the stump.
Although the rate of postoperative fistulas is low (about 4.5% according to Kyzer et al. 1997), extreme care must be taken to prevent this grave type of surgical complication.
• Variation
Fibrin glue:
Fibrin glue can be used to reinforce suturing.
No study has demonstrated so far that the rate of postoperative fistulas significantly decreases when fibrin glue is used. |