Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy: A Novel Approach for Terminal Ileum Anastomosis Success

BACKGROUND Terminal ileum (TI) anastomoses present challenges due to anatomical features and pressure from the ileocecal valve (ICV). The use of negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is commonly used to treat chronic skin ulcers. Its use for temporary abdominal closure following anastomosis is controversial but has shown promise in patients with inflammatory or vascular disease. This report presents 3 successful cases in which NPWT was used after TI anastomosis surgery. CASE REPORT Case 1: A 65-year-old woman with chronic kidney disease and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation was diagnosed with mesenteric ischemia. Surgical resection removed a segment of the jejunum and ileum, with an end-to-side anastomosis 10 cm from the ICV. NPWT was initiated, and abdominal wall closure was achieved. Case 2: A 73-year-old man with a history of an incarcerated left inguinal hernia, previously treated with herniorrhaphy and intestinal resection, presented with generalized peritonitis and anastomotic dehiscence 70 cm from the ICV. Resection was performed, followed by ileectomy for ischemia 15 cm from the ICV and a 2-layer isoperistaltic side-to-side anastomosis. NPWT was initiated to reduce edema and achieve primary abdominal closure. Case 3: A 69-year-old man diagnosed with mesenteric ischemia underwent resection of 40 cm of ischemic intestine. Follow-up laparotomy revealed the need for manual end-to-end anastomosis 12 cm from the ICV. NPWT was applied due to the inability to achieve primary closure. CONCLUSIONS Despite concerns regarding vascularization and pressure near the ICV, these cases demonstrate that NPWT can be safely utilized following TI anastomosis. This challenges conventional guidelines and supports its use, even in high-risk anastomoses.