Indocyanine green significantly lowers anastomotic leak risk.

A systematic review and meta-analysis examining randomized controlled trials reveals that indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG-FA) leads to a 45% reduction in overall anastomotic leaks during colorectal surgery. Specific findings indicate a 47% reduction for low anastomoses and a 69% reduction in grade A leaks. However, no significant differences were noted in secondary outcomes such as blood loss and surgery duration. The evidence supports ICG-FA’s effectiveness, necessitating further trials for confirmation.