Rectal anastomotic leak

Case contributed by Ian Bickle
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Day 6 post rectal surgery for mid-low rectal cancer. Distended abdomen. Anastomotic leak?

Patient Data

Age: 55 years
Gender: Male
ct

Contrast leaks through a leak above the anastomosis line into the pre-sacral space

Photo

Repeat laparotomy performed. 

Details of operation from surgeon.

Case Discussion

Rectal contrast administration can be of use in CT imaging, particularly when concern over an anastomotic leak is raised from the clinician.

In this case contrast leaks through a leak above the anastomosis line into the pre-sacral space.

Traditional fluoroscopy can also be performed and has the advantage of being dynamic in viewing the leak.

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