sigmoidsteek

Sigmoidsteek, or sigmoid stitch, is a surgical suturing technique used in procedures involving the sigmoid colon, the S-shaped portion of the large intestine. The term combines sigmoid, referring to this anatomical segment, with steek, Dutch for stitch or suture. The technique is employed to create or close a connection between bowel segments (anastomosis) or to secure resection margins after removing diseased tissue from the sigmoid region.

Technique and materials commonly used for the sigmoidsteek include absorbable sutures such as polydioxanone (PDS) or polyglycolic acid (PGA). Sutures may be placed as interrupted stitches or as a continuous running layer, depending on surgeon preference. In a two-layer approach, the inner layer approximates the mucosa and submucosa to restore luminal continuity, while an outer seromuscular layer reinforces the closure. In a single-layer approach, a full-thickness or seromuscular technique may suffice. The aim is a watertight, tension-free closure with good mucosal alignment to minimize leakage risk.

Indications for the sigmoidsteek include resections of the sigmoid colon, end-to-end colorectal anastomosis near the sigmoid, and repairs following perforation or complex diverticular disease. Outcomes depend on factors such as tissue quality and tension at the anastomosis. Complications can include anastomotic leakage, infection, bleeding, or stricture formation. With advances in stapling devices and minimally invasive techniques, hand-sewn sigmoidsteeks remain relevant in certain settings, particularly where staplers are unavailable or in complex reconstructions.