| Interventions |
Eligible patients are identified by treating colorectal surgeon and invited to participate in the study. Participants interested in participating in the study receive information about the study and asked to provide written consent before being included. Participants provide written consent to allow access to patient medical records and a daily collection of drain fluid (10 ml) and a sample (10 ml) from the rectal tube on Day 1 post operatively. The daily collection of drain fluid and rectal tube sample presents no additional risk, discomfort or inconvenience for participants. Participation is voluntary with the option of withdrawal at any stage without consequence. Drain fluid samples are collected daily for 5 days (or until drain is removed, whichever is later) for measurement of amylase levels. An increase in drain fluid amylase is expected in the case of anastomotic leak, at an earlier timepoint than current diagnostics. |