Mechanical suture–modern alternatives for suturing

Abstract

The increase in the incidence of gastric and colorectal cancer in developed or developing countries led to the need to improve oncological surgery. Oncological surgery of the digestive tract translates in most cases into resection and anastomosis. Using a mechanical suturing device is no longer considered something revolutionary. However, the technology behind new instruments that helps surgeons perform operations changed over time. The main purpose of perfecting these devices is to execute a safer suture or anastomosis and shorten the intraoperative time. In this study, we made a short review of the principles behind intestinal and skin staplers, and the advantages and disadvantages of these tools as an alternative to manual suturing using textile materials. We also described the use of cyanoacrylate as an adhesive and sealant.