The use of mesenchymal stem cells in animal models for gastrointestinal anastomotic leak: A systematic review

Abstract

Anastomotic leak (AL) occurs when two ends of bowel joined together fail to heal, resulting in the spillage of enteric contents into the peritoneal cavity. It is the most feared complication of gastrointestinal surgery, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Internationally, leak rates vary between 1% and 19% depending on the site of the anastomosis with 20%-30% of affected patients