Transanal circular stapler technique: a simple and highly effective method for the management of high-grade stenosis of low colorectal anastomoses.

Anastomotic stricture is a severe complication of colorectal anastomoses. Although dilatation is the treatment of choice for low-grade stenoses, surgery may be required for patients with high-grade stenoses or when dilatations fail. Surgical repair of colorectal anastomoses is a challenge for the surgeon. The transanal circular stapler technique is a simple and effective method for the repair of stenoses of low colorectal anastomoses, which avoids extensive tissue dissection and achieves excellent long-term results. We present 2 patients successfully treated by this technique [in one, the combined (transanal plus transabdominal) approach was used] and the relevant literature is briefly reviewed.