An updated meta-analysis of transanal drainage tube for prevention of anastomotic leak in anterior resection for rectal cancer

Abstract

Background: Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the most serious complications after anterior resection for rectal cancer. Transanal drainage tube (TDT) placement is widely used to reduce AL, but its efficacy remains controversial. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of TDT for prevention of AL, using updated evidence.

Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies evaluating the effectiveness of TDT for prevention of AL after anterior resection for rectal cancer were identified by using a predefined search strategy. Meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled rates of AL, reoperation, anastomotic bleeding and mortality separately.

Results: One RCT and ten cohort studies which including 1170 cases with TDT and 1262 cases without TDT were considered eligible for inclusion. Meta-analysis showed that the TDT group was associated with a significant lower rates of AL (RR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.31-0.58, P < 0.00001) and reoperation (RR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.19-0.45, P < 0.00001). There was no significant difference in anastomotic bleeding rate and mortality between the two groups.

Conclusions: TDT placement is associated with significant lower rates of AL and reoperation, hence it is likely to be an effective method of preventing and reducing AL after rectal cancer surgery.

Keywords: Anastomotic leakage; Anterior resection; Transanal drainage tube.