[Single-layer digestive sutures (manual and mechanical). Observations after 20 years].

The experimental study (on rabbits and dogs) and the clinical study followed one layer sutures performed with eversing or inversing separate stitches, with ordinary or nontraumatic needles or mechanical sutures. Sutures were performed on oesophagus, stomach, small and large bowel. Excepting the oeso-jejunal or ileo-colic anastomosis (termino-lateral), the majority of sutures were used to accomplish termino-terminal anastomosis. The results were improved using high-quality materials (resistant, nonhygroscopical, resorbable threads), on correctly evacuated digestive tract, under antibiotic protection, avoiding perioperative hemodynamic fluctuations, with a complex postoperative care and a gradual renutrition.