A Self-locking Implant for Short-Term Use as an Alternative to Purse-String Suture in Colon Anastomosis

Colorectal cancer is common in humans where treatment involves surgical removal of the cancerous part of the intestines. A new short term implant, based on the principle of a self-locking loop, was developed to replace the purse string suture for temporary sealing of the lumen in colon anastomosis. The aim of this in vivo study was to test the self-locking implant, in conjunction with a new suture-free method (Adaptive Anaerobic Anastomosis) and the traditional circular staplers, to perform colonic anastomosis. A flexible band with a locking mechanism was constructed. Small protrusions, designed for increased friction between implant and tissue, were added to one side of the flexible band in order to enhance the grip at closure of the loop around tissue. The in vivo test was performed on six female pigs of approximately 50 kg, where the self-locking implant was used for closure of the lumen around anvils and trocars. Adaptive Anaerobic Anastomosis (n=3) and traditional circular stapler anastomosis (n=3). The self-locking implant could close the lumen of colon around the anvil and trocar of both tested techniques. Subjectively, the device achieved a tight closure of the colon. The technology was perceived as potentially timesaving and easy to use. We conclude the device may be an alternative to the traditional purse-string suture for temporary closure of the colon lumen in colon anastomosis.