[New technical and methodologic developments in surgery: mechanical suture technique].

Abstract

Mechanical suture is possible by linear, circular and so-called anastomotic devices. Linear staplers work with metal clips and polyglactin, while circular-stapler-anastomoses function with metal clips and the Murphy principle. Compared to hand suturing staplers have not only the advantage of saving time but they also provide for a simple closure of the duodenal stump, the bronchus and the safe anastomosis of the rectum and the esophagus. The clipless compression-anastomosis seems to have a promising future. Its advantages include the absence of a foreign body, larger diameter of the anastomosis and no risk of postoperative haemorrhage. Our results with staplers (1987-1988) prove their superiority: there were only three insufficiencies among 140 circular anastomoses of the esophagus and the rectum. No complications occurred in 153 applications of linear staplers on the bowel and the lung.