Techniques in coloproctology
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Anastomotic leakage (AL) remains the most challenging complication following colorectal resection. There are several tests that can be used to test anastomotic integrity intraoperatively including air leak testing (ALT) and intraoperative colonoscopy (IOC). Indocyanine green (ICG) can be used to visualise blood supply to the bowel used in the anastomosis. However, there is no consensus internationally regarding routine use and which technique is superior. The aim of this study was to determine which intraoperative anastomotoic leak test (IALT) was most effective in reducing AL. ⋯ This study suggests that intraoperative testing for a good blood supply using ICG may reduce the AL rate following colorectal surgery.