The Effect on Anastomotic Leakage of Serum Zn, Cu Levels and Cu-Zn Ratio

Abstract

This study evaluated the influence of serum Zn and Cu levels on postoperative complication, following manual anastomosis of the alimentary track. Fifty seven vases of alimentary tract malignancy were included (22 stomach and 35 esophagus). Serum 2n and Cu levels were measured preoperatively and on the third, fifth and seventh postoperative days. Postoperative serum Zn levels were low in patients with anastomotic leakage, and there were significant differences in Zn levels between those with and without anastomotic leakage. However, there was no significant change in Cu levels. In the light of these findings, we conclude that Zn plays an effective role in anastomotic healing.