Impact of IMA Occlusion on Anastomotic Leakage

Rectal cancer is primarily treated with surgery, including low anterior resection or ultra-low anterior resection depending on tumor characteristics. Anastomotic leakage is one of the most serious postoperative complications and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Established risk factors include male sex, preoperative radiotherapy, low anastomosis, advanced age, comorbidities, and vascular disease. Atherosclerosis may contribute to anastomotic leakage by reducing blood flow and impairing tissue perfusion at the anastomotic site. The inferior mesenteric artery (IMA), a major source of blood supply to the colorectal region, may be affected by atherosclerotic narrowing or occlusion, potentially increasing the risk of postoperative leakage. The aim of this study is to assess the degree of IMA occlusion using routine preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scans obtained for rectal cancer staging and to investigate its association with anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery. Identification of patients with severe IMA occlusion may help guide the selective use of protective stomas to reduce the risk of this complication.

Sex

All

Minimum age

18 Years

Maximum age

75 Years

Inclusion Criteria:

* ICD C20 Patients diagnosed with malignant neoplasm of the rectum
* Patients who have undergone laparoscopic or open surgery with low anterior resection or ultra low anterior resection due to rectal cancer

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with a history of abdominal aorta surgery/grafting
* Patients diagnosed with vascular, autoimmune, or rheumatological diseases.