Anastomotic Leak Following Colon Cancer Resection: An Independent Predictor of Non‐Oncologic Mortality and Morbidity

AL is an independent predictor of postoperative morbidity and long-term nononcologic mortality in colon cancer patients. While OS and DFS were significantly reduced, CSS remained unaffected, a unique finding that challenges assumptions about leak-related oncologic progression. These results suggest that excess mortality stems from systemic complications and care disruption rather than cancer recurrence. Preventive strategies and early leak detection in high-risk patients are essential to improving outcomes.