Anastómosis

Anastómosis is a medical term referring to the surgical connection between two structures that are normally separate. This procedure is most commonly performed on blood vessels or tubular organs, such as parts of the intestine, to allow for the flow of fluids or blood between them.

The purpose of an anastomosis is to reroute blood flow, bypass a blockage, or reconnect severed ends of a vessel or organ. For instance, in vascular surgery, anastómosis might be used to connect a healthy blood vessel to bypass a damaged or diseased section of an artery or vein. In gastrointestinal surgery, it is frequently used to rejoin sections of the intestine after a diseased portion has been removed, enabling the digestive tract to function properly.

The success of an anastomosis depends on several factors, including the health of the tissues involved, the surgical technique employed, and the absence of infection. Surgeons use sutures, staples, or surgical glue to create a secure and watertight connection. Complications can include leakage at the connection site, stenosis (narrowing), or thrombosis (blood clot formation). Precise surgical skill and careful postoperative monitoring are crucial to ensure a positive outcome. The term itself originates from the Greek words "ana" meaning "up" or "back" and "stoma" meaning "mouth," implying a joining or opening.