Continuous mattress suture for all hand-sewn anastomoses of the gastrointestinal tract

Background: The continuous vertical mattress technique for anastomoses in the gastrointestinal or colorectal surgery has not been well reported in literature. Methods We used the technique for all hand-sewn anastomoses with double-armed monofilament absorbable suture (Glycomer 631). Results In the 266 consecutive anastomoses in 242 cases, there were 4 anastomotic leakages (1.5%) and 1 anastomotic stenosis (0.4%). Conclusions The technique was feasible, time-saving, economical and with satisfactory results.