A novel dual balloon rectal catheter for use in the postoperative assessment of low rectal anastomoses following low anterior resection

Abstract

Following low anterior resection (LAR) of the colon, an image-guided assessment of the anastomosis for leak is typically performed using an enema via a rectal catheter, whether by CT or fluoroscopy. However, there is potential for poor assessment due to inappropriate catheter positioning as well as potential risk that the anastomosis becomes compromised by the balloon inflation. This article discusses the adaptation of a novel double-balloon catheter (originally designed by a member of our institution for use in pediatric intussusception reduction) for assessment of low rectal anastomoses. The goal of this technical note is to demonstrate our experience with this catheter, primarily through example cases, and explain its potential for optimizing colon distension, minimizing improper catheter placement, and potentially reducing the risk of iatrogenic anastomosis disruption.