The agony of acute anastomotic leak. Managing the emotional impact

Anastomotic leak is a feared complication of any bowel surgery. While the technical aspects of this complication and its management are often studied, the emotional implications on the patient and surgeon should not be overlooked. There is a growing body of literature on the management of the emotional toll complications can have on the surgeon and team. Open communication with the patient, leaning on colleagues for support, and a blame free surgical culture can be helpful for surgeons facing these dreaded outcomes. Institutional resources are scarcely utilized, but may be available as well. Patients and their families should be informed of the consequences of the complication and the potential for further sequelae to follow. By being available, truthful, and taking care of one's own response to the trauma, the surgeon can lead all involved through a difficult course.