Our Summary

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a significant complication that can occur after bowel surgery. It can lead to various health problems, an increased risk of cancer, and even death. It also places a large financial burden on hospitals and society due to the high costs of treatment and resources used. This study reviewed existing research to understand the costs associated with AL after bowel surgery.

The researchers looked at health economic evaluations that reported costs related to AL after bowel surgery from multiple online databases until June 2023. They used a special list to evaluate the quality of these studies.

The costs were converted to 2022 euros and adjusted for differences in purchasing power between countries. The researchers found that the additional costs of AL, after adjusting for purchasing power, ranged from €2250 in Romania to €83,633 in Brazil. The main costs were related to readmission to the hospital, stay in intensive care, and additional surgeries.

Only one study estimated the societal economic burden of AL, which was between €1.9 and €6.1 million. The study concluded that AL places a major financial burden on hospitals and social care systems. The costs vary significantly between countries, and there is a lack of data on the societal burden and non-medical costs. The researchers stressed the importance of adhering to international reporting standards to understand international differences and to validate reported cost estimates.

FAQs

  1. What is anastomotic leakage (AL) and why is it a significant complication after bowel surgery?
  2. What were the main costs associated with anastomotic leakage after surgery according to the study?
  3. What did the researchers conclude about the financial burden of anastomotic leakage on hospitals and social care systems?

Doctor’s Tip

Therefore, it is important for patients undergoing colorectal surgery to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications such as anastomotic leakage. This includes following a proper diet, staying hydrated, taking prescribed medications, and avoiding strenuous activities. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your recovery and address any concerns promptly. By following these guidelines, you can help reduce the risk of complications and promote a successful recovery after colorectal surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended colorectal surgery include those with:

  1. Colorectal cancer
  2. Inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
  3. Diverticulitis
  4. Colorectal polyps
  5. Bowel obstruction
  6. Rectal prolapse
  7. Fecal incontinence

These conditions may require surgical intervention to remove tumors, repair damaged tissue, or alleviate symptoms. The decision to recommend surgery is based on the individual patient’s specific condition, overall health, and treatment goals.

Timeline

Before colorectal surgery:

  • Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and consultations with the surgeon
  • Patient may need to follow a special diet or take medication to prepare for surgery
  • Patient may need to stop certain medications or supplements before surgery
  • Patient is admitted to the hospital on the day of surgery

After colorectal surgery:

  • Patient stays in the hospital for a few days to recover
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue
  • Patient may need to follow a special diet and take medication to aid in healing
  • Patient may need to attend follow-up appointments with the surgeon for monitoring and wound care
  • Patient may need to participate in physical therapy or rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility

Overall, the recovery process can vary depending on the individual’s health, the type of surgery performed, and any complications that may arise. It is important for patients to follow their surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with colorectal surgery, including anastomotic leakage?
  2. How common is anastomotic leakage after bowel surgery, and what are the factors that may increase the risk?
  3. What symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate anastomotic leakage, and when should I seek immediate medical attention?
  4. How is anastomotic leakage typically diagnosed and treated?
  5. What is the expected recovery process if anastomotic leakage occurs after colorectal surgery?
  6. Are there any specific measures or precautions I can take to reduce the risk of anastomotic leakage post-surgery?
  7. How will anastomotic leakage impact my overall treatment plan and long-term outcomes?
  8. What are the financial costs associated with treating anastomotic leakage after colorectal surgery, and how can I prepare for potential expenses?
  9. Are there any support resources or services available to help manage the financial burden of anastomotic leakage and other potential complications?
  10. How can I ensure that the healthcare team is following international reporting standards and guidelines to accurately assess and address the economic impact of anastomotic leakage after bowel surgery?

Reference

Authors: Nijssen DJ, Wienholts K, Postma MJ, Tuynman J, Bemelman WA, Laméris W, Hompes R. Journal: Tech Coloproctol. 2024 May 20;28(1):55. doi: 10.1007/s10151-024-02932-4. PMID: 38769231