International journal of surgery
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Recent literature suggests that stapled anastomotic (SA) technique for the reversal of loop ileostomy (LI) may be beneficial in terms of early recovery and reduced incidence of small bowel obstruction when compared to the handsewn anastomosis (HA). Enhanced Recovery Programme (ERP) after colorectal procedures has demonstrated a reduction in some aspects of surgical morbidity. The aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of patients undergoing reversal of LI within an ERP programme and compare the HA to the SA in relation to clinical outcomes. ⋯ Reversal of LI under an ERP appears to potentially neutralise the suggested SA benefits in terms of postoperative complications without any additional negative implications. Other non-operative factors may have a potential effect on outcomes such as the TLOS.