Systemic assessment of manual circular stapler versus powered circular stapler for anastomosis in rectal cancer: a large-scale Chinese multicenter prospective cohort study

Int J Surg. 2025 Jan 1;111(1):1564-1567. doi: 10.1097/JS9.0000000000002010.

Abstract

Mechanical anastomosis in rectal cancer surgery offers several advantages but is plagued by complications like leaks and strictures. Variations in surgeons' experiences affect outcomes, but powered circular anastomosis has emerged as a promising solution, ensuring uniform staple formation, and reducing manual manipulation. This multicenter, randomized, parallel-controlled study in China compared IntoCare's powered circular staplers (ICS) with manual circular staplers (MCS) in 382 patients (195 ICS, 187 MCS). Both groups had comparable anastomotic leakage rates. ICS significantly reduced anastomosis time while maintaining similar safety profiles. Postoperative recovery and complication rates were closely matched. The use of ICS in rectal cancer surgeries effectively reduces anastomosis time without compromising safety, offering a promising innovation to enhance the efficacy of rectal cancer surgeries while maintaining patient safety.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anastomosis, Surgical* / adverse effects
  • Anastomosis, Surgical* / instrumentation
  • Anastomosis, Surgical* / methods
  • Anastomotic Leak / epidemiology
  • Anastomotic Leak / etiology
  • China
  • East Asian People
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies
  • Rectal Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Rectum* / surgery
  • Surgical Staplers*
  • Surgical Stapling* / instrumentation
  • Surgical Stapling* / methods
  • Treatment Outcome

Supplementary concepts

  • Chinese people