anastomose

Anastomose is the verb meaning to connect two normally separate tubular structures by forming an anastomosis, and anastomosis is the surgical connection itself. The term derives from Greek anastomoun, to furnish with a mouth. In medical use, anastomosis may refer to the procedure or the resulting continuity between luminal structures.

Vascular anastomosis connects two blood vessels and is central to many operations, including bypass procedures, arterial reconstruction, and organ transplantation. It can be performed end-to-end, end-to-side, or side-to-side, and may be achieved with sutures, stapling devices, or microvascular techniques under magnification.

Intestinal anastomosis joins two segments of bowel after resection to restore continuity and function. Similar connections are made in biliary and urinary systems, such as biliary-enteric or ureteral anastomoses, and in other tubular structures as clinically indicated.

Techniques emphasize precise alignment, adequate lumen size matching, minimal tension, and hemostasis. Choices between hand-sewn versus stapled methods depend on location, tissue quality, and surgeon experience. In modern practice, microvascular anastomosis uses specialized instruments and optics to join small vessels, and robotic assistance may be employed in selected cases.

Complications include anastomotic leak or dehiscence, stenosis or stricture, bleeding, infection, and thrombosis, all of which can impair perfusion or function. Prevention focuses on meticulous technique, appropriate tissue handling, infection control, and tension-free closure.