[Clinics and management of radiation injuries of small bowel and colon(author's transl)]

Abstract

In the Surgical and Gynecological Departments of the University of Mainz, Medical School, 50 patients were operated between 1964-1976 for mechanical and paralytical ileus and intestinal bleeding caused by radiation injury of the bowel. Diagnosis depends on the history of radiation therapy. At operation we have seen a recurrence of gynecological and other malignant growths only two times. Intestinal resection with anastomosis is the preferred method for the management of such radiation injuries. The postoperative dehiscence of the intestine was noticed only five times. In order to prevent higher mortality rates, operation should be carried out as soon as possible.