Anastomotic leakage is the most common and dreadful complication of colorectal surgeries. It is associated with prolonged hospital stays, surgical re-interventions, and an increased mortality rate. In addition, the presence of an anastomotic fistula or leakage affects patients’ quality of life and psychological well-being.
There is also an increased risk of fecal incontinence and reduced sexual activity, which is further worsened by local recurrences. Anastomotic leakage clinically elicits within 5th to 12th postoperative days and may present as an inflammatory response, pain, or fever.