Risk Factors and Outcomes of Anastomotic Leak Following Colorectal Resections at a Tertiary Care Center in North Gujarat

Background: Anastomotic leak (AL) is a serious complication after colorectal resections, leading to increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and mortality. Despite advances in surgical care, AL rates remain variable, especially in India where colorectal cancer incidence is rising. Risk factors such as male gender, malnutrition, diabetes, and low rectal anastomosis are recognized, but Indian prospective data are limited. This study aimed to identify risk factors and evaluate outcomes of AL in patients undergoing colorectal resections at a tertiary care center in North Gujarat, providing region-specific evidence for improved risk assessment and management. Material and Methods: This prospective observational study enrolled 182 consecutive patients undergoing elective colorectal resections with primary anastomosis over a year. Data on demographics, comorbidities, preoperative nutrition, operative details, and postoperative outcomes were collected prospectively. Ethical clearance was obtained from the institutional review board, with written informed consent from all participants. Inclusion criteria included adults aged 18-80 years with benign or malignant colorectal diseases requiring resection and anastomosis. Exclusions were emergency surgeries, diverting stomas, or incomplete follow-up. AL was diagnosed clinically or radiologically within 30 days. Risk factors were evaluated via univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Outcomes like mortality and reintervention were compared. Analysis used SPSS version 26, with p