What is meant by end-to-end anastomosis?

End-to-end anastomosis refers specifically to the surgical technique that involves the direct connection of two ends of the bowel or any tubular organ, allowing for the continuity of the digestive tract following a resection. This technique is often employed in procedures where a segment of the intestine has been removed due to disease or injury, and it is crucial for restoring normal function by re-establishing the passage for intestinal contents.

The rationale for performing an end-to-end anastomosis includes minimizing the risk of complications and maintaining normal bowel function, which can be vital for patient recovery. In this process, the two cut ends of the bowel are aligned and sutured or stapled together to form a seamless connection.

The other options listed involve distinct surgical concepts. Connection of jejunum segments does not encompass the broader definition of anastomosis beyond the jejunum. Infection occurring at the surgical site is a potential complication of any surgical procedure but is not related to the specific concept of anastomosis. Surgical enlargement of the pylorus refers to a different surgical procedure entirely, typically involving the stomach rather than the anastomosis of bowel ends. Thus, the selection of the answer emphasizing the direct connection of two bowel ends accurately defines the term end-to-end