Procalcitonin and C-Reactive Protein as Early Predictors of Anastomotic Leak in Colorectal Surgery

Abstract

Procalcitonin and C-reactive protein are both reliable predictors of major anastomotic leak after colorectal resection, although procalcitonin is more accurate. Raised procalcitonin and C-reactive protein serum concentration on postoperative days 3 to 5 renders necessary a careful evaluation of the patient before discharge.