Effects of steroid on the healing of colonic anastomoses in the rat.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of this experimental study was to evaluate the effects of steroid on colonic anastomosis in a rat model. METHODS: Forty female Wistar rats were randomised into two groups. After resection of a 1-cm segment of the transverse colon, an end-to-end sutured anastomosis was performed. In the rats of the control group 2 ml of solution 0.9% NaCl was injected once daily intraperitoneally perioperatively. Rats of the steroid group received intraperitoneally once daily, and on the same perioperative days, hydrocortisone (5 mg/kg body weight in 2 ml solution NaCl). All the rats were sacrificed on the 8th postoperative day and the anastomoses were examined macroscopically. The bursting pressure measurements were recorded and anastomoses were graded histologically. RESULTS: Dehiscence rate was significantly higher in the steroid group than in the control group (p<0.001). Mean bursting pressure was significantly lower in the steroid group compared to the control group (p<0.001). Colonic healing process assessed as inflammatory cell infiltration and collagen deposition was significantly lower in the steroid group than in the control group (p<0.001, p=0.03 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Perioperative steroid treatment adversely affects healing of colonic anastomoses in the rat.