Unspecific spondylodiscitis following anastomotic leakage after rectal resection

Anastomotic leakage is a serious complication in abdominal surgery. We report on two cases of spondylodiscitis L5/S1 following anastomotic leakage with fistula after low anterior rectal resection. Within five months after rectal resection two patients with massive back pain were admitted to our department. MRI established the diagnosis of spondylodiscitis. Ventral debridement, spondylodesis and protective stoma were performed. With this procedure we were able to achieve control of infection. There were no further complications in the follow-up. Stability of the spinal column was restored and massive back pain was entirely relieved. No signs of rectal cancer recurrence were seen in both cases during the observation period.