Recanalization of a complete coloanal anastomotic obstruction using a combined antegrade-retrograde rendezvous technique

A 66-year-old man with a history of lower rectal adenocarcinoma and robotic-assisted low anterior resection with creation of a diverting ileostomy, presented with complete stenosis of the coloanal anastomosis ([Fig. 1 a]). Rendezvous recanalization of the coloanal obstruction was planned ([Video 1]).

Fig. 1 Initial imaging. a Sigmoidoscopy showed complete obstruction at the coloanal anastomosis. b Fluoroscopy during the procedure showed luminal narrowing and complete obstruction at the coloanal anastomosis.

Video 1 Recanalization of a complete coloanal anastomotic obstruction using a combined antegrade-retrograde rendezvous technique.

A pediatric colonoscope was advanced through the ileostomy toward the distal colon where complete obstruction was identified at the coloanal anastomosis ([Fig. 1 b]). As the colonoscope could not be advanced to the blind end, the blunt end of an injection needle was used to push at the blind end to facilitate identification of the puncture site ([Fig. 2 a]). Using transillumination and digital palpation, the coloanal anastomosis was punctured from the anal side using a trocar ([Fig. 2 b]). A 0.035-inch Jagwire (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, Massachusetts, USA) was advanced through the trocar and captured using a snare. The guidewire was pulled out and both ends of the guidewire were captured. The coloanal stricture was dilated using a controlled radial expansion balloon ([Fig. 3 a]). An 18 × 153-mm esophageal fully covered metal stent was advanced from the anal side and deployed across the coloanal stricture ([Fig. 3 b]). The stent was secured with two 2-0 silk sutures. To maintain patency of the anastomosis in the event of stent migration, a colonic decompression tube was advanced over the guidewire and both ends were sutured together. Computed tomography scan confirmed correct position of the stent ([Fig. 4]).

Fig. 2 Colonoscopic views. a The blunt end of an injection needle was used to push at the blind end to facilitate identification of the puncture site. b A trocar was used to puncture the coloanal anastomosis from the anal side.

Fig. 3 Fluoroscopic views. a Dilation of the fistulous tract and coloanal stricture using a controlled radial expansion balloon to 18 mm. b An 18 × 153-mm esophageal fully covered metal stent was advanced over the guidewire from the anal side and deployed across the coloanal stricture.

Fig. 4 Computed tomography scans (a, b) of the abdomen/pelvis after the procedure confirmed correct stent position (arrows).

Sigmoidoscopy was performed at 4 weeks for stent removal. The anastomosis was patent and had healed ([Fig. 5]). Ileostomy reversal was successfully performed 5 days later.

Fig. 5 Sigmoidoscopy at 4 weeks showed a patent and healed anastomotic site.

Rendezvous recanalization of complete coloanal obstruction is a potential alternative to revision surgery, which is difficult and has high morbidity. When endoscopic ultrasound-guided techniques for accessing the proximal colon are not possible, combination of transillumination and digital palpation is a viable option.

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Competing interests

Dr. Ngamruengphong is a consultant for Boston Scientific. All other authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Publication History

Article published online:
27 February 2020