Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility of single-stage resection and anastomosis for acute left-sided colonic obstruction due to acute sigmoid volvulus without intraoperative lavage. Mechanical bowel preparation has been shown to be unnecessary for elective colorectal surgery. Colonic decompression without intraoperative lavage may simplify operations in acute left-sided colorectal obstruction.
Methods: Emergency resection of acute sigmoid volvulus was performed. This was followed by primary anastomosis without on-table lavage after closed bowel decompression.
Results: A total of 197 patients underwent bowel decompression, resection and primary colonic anastomosis. Two patients developed anastomosis leak, requiring re-laparotomy, Hartmann's procedure and delayed closure. Two deaths occurred postoperatively; these were unrelated to the nature of the surgery. The mean hospital stay was 9.8 days.
Conclusion: Primary colonic anastomosis can be safely done for obstructed left colon due to acute sigmoid volvulus without intraoperative colonic lavage.