Elevated calprotectin levels predict early anastomotic leakage outcomes

Findings indicate that increased calprotectin levels in drain fluid post colorectal surgery serve as reliable predictors of early anastomotic leakage (AL). In a cohort of 306 patients, those developing AL exhibited significantly higher calprotectin levels starting from the third postoperative day. Specifically, levels exceeding 110 ng/ml demonstrated 92% sensitivity and 82% specificity for detecting preclinical AL. This marker may enhance early postoperative management, outperforming traditional inflammatory indicators like C-reactive protein and interleukin-6.