AL was defined clinically as gas, pus, or fecal discharge from the drain, fecal discharge from the operative wound, pelvic abscess, peritonitis, and rectovaginal fistula
Diagnosis of AL was confirmed by endoscopy, contrast enema, abdominal CT scan, microbiologic examination, and finally intraoperative findings during relaparotomy
Anastomotic leakage was defined as a demonstrated defect of the intestinal wall at the anastomotic site leading to a communication between the intra- and extraluminal compartment’s
Clinically relevant AL was defined as extra luminal presence of contrast fluid on contrast CT scans and/or leakage when relaparotomy was performed, requiring reintervention