[Anastomosis using the Valtrac ring--pro and con].

Authors present their experiences with the gastrointestinal anastomosis construction with the biofragmentable ring (Valtrac). Between May 1995 and June 1999 they used it in the group of 75 patients with mean age 58.4 (range 19-59) years. They used Valtrac most often--in 32 patients--to construct the anastomosis between small and large bowel after right hemicolectomy. One enterocutaneous fistula and one intestinal obstruction due to adhesions occurred in this group. Two patients had the signs of fecal impaction in postoperative period, which disappeared after the ring fragmentation. According to their experiences authors claim, that the anastomosis with Valtrac is a safe procedure with a few number of postoperative complications. Disadvantage in our conditions is its high price.