Abstract
Endoscopically and histologically we assessed a new tracheal anastomotic technique by a mechanical stapling device. A section of cervical trachea 5 rings in length measuring between 2.4cm and 3.5cm was excised and anastomosis was performed with three mechanical anastomotic devices in group A (n=7), and resorbable 4-0 Polysorb in group B (n=4). Three linear anastomotic devices were placed outside the tracheal wall and three backing sutures were made by three 2-0 silkwormgut for end-to end tracheal anastomosis. Postoperative bronchoscopic evaluation of the mechanically anastomosed site in group A did not detect any stenosis and the same result were seen in group B. All animals survived throught the experimental period of eight weeks. On bronchoscopic examination of the anastomotic sites, All 7 dogs in group A showed circumferential anastomotic stenosis due to granulation at the end of the experimental period. However, we could not detect anastomotic stenosis in group B. Histological examination confirmed inflammatory stenosis in one of the sacrificed animals in group A. This new mechanical tracheal anastomotic technique should be improved with regard to postoperative stenosis.
