{"id":579,"date":"2026-08-20T17:08:10","date_gmt":"2026-08-20T15:08:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/?post_type=glossary&#038;p=579"},"modified":"2026-08-28T11:53:29","modified_gmt":"2026-08-28T09:53:29","slug":"anastomotic-insufficiency","status":"publish","type":"glossary","link":"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/en\/glossar\/anastomoseninsuffizienz\/","title":{"rendered":"Anastomotic leakage: causes, treatment and financial protection"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-boxed has-apricot-light-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Anastomotic leak:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Anastomotic leakage refers to a leak at a surgically created connection (anastomosis) between two hollow organs, for example following bowel or stomach surgery. Digestive contents leak into the abdominal cavity through this leak. It is a serious complication that must be identified and treated promptly.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of Contents<\/h2><nav><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#was-ist-eine-anastomoseninsuffizienz\">What is an anastomotic leak?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#wann-tritt-eine-anastomoseninsuffizienz-auf\">When does anastomotic leakage occur?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#ursachen-und-risikofaktoren\">Causes and risk factors<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#symptome-warnzeichen-erkennen\">Symptoms: Recognising the warning signs<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#diagnose\">Diagnosis<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#behandlung-der-anastomoseninsuffizienz\">Treatment of anastomotic leakage<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#pravention\">Prevention<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#kosten-und-finanzielle-absicherung\">Costs and financial security<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#haufige-fragen-zur-anastomoseninsuffizienz\">Frequently asked questions about anastomotic leakage<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#quellen\">Sources<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-boxed has-white-warm-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important note<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"was-ist-eine-anastomoseninsuffizienz\">What is an anastomotic leak?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>An anastomotic leak is a leak in a surgically created connection between organs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Synonyms: anastomotic leak, suture insufficiency, leaky anastomosis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It typically occurs in the first few days following the procedure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The gastrointestinal tract is frequently affected<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In many abdominal operations, the two ends of a hollow organ need to be reconnected \u2013 for example, two sections of the bowel, or the stomach and the small intestine. This surgical connection is called <strong>Anastomosis<\/strong>. It is secured with a suture or staples and must remain securely sealed during the first few days until the tissue has healed firmly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One <strong>Anastomotic insufficiency<\/strong> occurs when this junction leaks before it has fully healed. The leak allows digestive contents to enter the free peritoneal cavity. This triggers inflammation of the peritoneum (peritonitis) and can progress to life-threatening blood poisoning (sepsis). Anastomotic leakage is therefore one of the most feared complications of abdominal surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"wann-tritt-eine-anastomoseninsuffizienz-auf\">When does anastomotic leakage occur?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An anastomosis is always required when a section of a hollow organ is removed or diverted. Consequently, insufficiency may occur following various abdominal procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bowel surgery:<\/strong> following the removal of sections of the bowel, for example due to inflammation or tumours<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gastric surgery:<\/strong> following stomach surgery involving a new connection to the small intestine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery:<\/strong> in procedures such as gastric bypass surgery, in which the stomach and bowel are reconnected<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Oesophageal surgery:<\/strong> in the case of connections in the oesophagus<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the field of cosmetic and weight-loss surgery, anastomotic leakage is particularly relevant in bariatric procedures such as gastric bypass surgery, where a new connection is created between the stomach and the small intestine. By contrast, procedures aimed purely at body contouring, such as liposuction or a tummy tuck, do not involve any anastomosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ursachen-und-risikofaktoren\">Causes and risk factors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An anastomotic leak usually results from a combination of several factors that interfere with the healing of the anastomosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"lokale-faktoren\">Local factors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Circulatory disturbance at the anastomosis:<\/strong> Tissue with poor blood supply is unlikely to heal properly<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tension at the seam:<\/strong> If the joint is under tension, it may tear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Infection in the surgical site:<\/strong> weakens the healing tissue<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technical factors:<\/strong> Suture or staple technique and local tissue quality<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"patientenbezogene-faktoren\">Patient-related factors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Smoking:<\/strong> significantly impairs blood circulation and wound healing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Diabetes mellitus:<\/strong> hinders healing and the body\u2019s defence against infection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Malnutrition:<\/strong> Protein and nutrient deficiencies slow down tissue growth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Immunosuppression:<\/strong> for example, by cortisone or certain medicines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Advanced age and multiple comorbidities<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-boxed is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Persistent or recurring fever, increasing abdominal pain and a deterioration in general health a few days after abdominal surgery are warning signs that require immediate medical attention.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"symptome-warnzeichen-erkennen\">Symptoms: Recognising the warning signs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Increasing, often vague abdominal pain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fever and a distinct feeling of being unwell<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) and a drop in blood pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A hard abdomen that is tender to the touch (a sign of peritonitis)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nausea, vomiting, lack of bowel movement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cloudy or abnormal discharge from a wound drain<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An anastomotic leak often becomes apparent between the third and seventh day after the operation. Typically, after an initial improvement, the patient\u2019s condition deteriorates again: a recurrence of fever, increasing pain and a decline in general health. A rapid heart rate is an important early sign that clinical staff monitor closely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-boxed is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Emergency:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A hard, extremely painful abdomen, a high fever, a racing heart, circulatory problems or confusion may be signs of peritonitis or the onset of blood poisoning (sepsis). In this case, immediate medical attention is required.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"diagnose\">Diagnosis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The diagnosis is based on the clinical presentation, laboratory results and imaging. Rising levels of inflammatory markers in the blood, particularly CRP and an elevated white blood cell count, provide important clues. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen is considered the most informative method, often using a contrast agent that makes any leakage at the anastomosis visible. Endoscopy or examination of the discharge from an indwelling drain may also aid in the diagnosis. It is crucial that any suspicion is investigated promptly, as early treatment significantly improves the outcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"behandlung-der-anastomoseninsuffizienz\">Treatment of anastomotic leakage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-boxed has-apricot-light-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key points at a glance<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Treatment depends on the size of the leak and the patient\u2019s condition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conservative treatment: antibiotics, dietary restriction, drainage for small, covered lacerations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Endoscopically: stent, clip or vacuum therapy for occlusion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Surgical: Surgery for major leaks or peritonitis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Intensive care monitoring in severe cases<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The aim of treatment is to seal the leak, control the infection and drain the digestive contents from the abdominal cavity. The strategy depends on the size of the leak, the organ affected and the patient\u2019s general condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"konservative-behandlung\">Conservative treatment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Small, well-contained (\u201ecovered\u201c) leaks in stable patients can be treated conservatively: with antibiotics, a temporary suspension of oral intake with intravenous nutrition, and a drain to remove any secretions. These patients are closely monitored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"endoskopische-verfahren\">Endoscopic procedures<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many leaks can be treated gently using endoscopy: a stent bridges the leak, a clip seals minor defects, and endoscopic negative-pressure (vacuum) therapy promotes healing from the inside. In many cases, these procedures can avoid the need for another major operation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"operative-behandlung\">Surgical treatment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the event of major leaks, severe peritonitis or circulatory instability, further surgery is required. During this procedure, the abdominal cavity is irrigated, the site of the leak is treated and \u2013 depending on the situation \u2013 the anastomosis is re-established or a temporary artificial bowel outlet (stoma) is created to relieve pressure on the connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list is-style-step-list\">\n<li><strong>Diagnostics:<\/strong> Laboratory tests and a CT scan confirm the diagnosis, as well as the location and size of the leak.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stabilisation:<\/strong> Circulatory issues, fluid balance and antibiotics are dealt with immediately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Derivation:<\/strong> Drainage of the fluid that has leaked from the abdominal cavity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Closure:<\/strong> endoscopically (stent, clip, vacuum) or surgically, depending on the findings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aftercare:<\/strong> Close monitoring, including intensive care where necessary, until full recovery.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pravention\">Prevention<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-boxed has-apricot-light-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Prevention at a glance<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Meticulous surgical technique resulting in a tension-free, well-perfused anastomosis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stop smoking several weeks before the procedure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Effective management of comorbidities such as diabetes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Optimising nutritional status prior to surgery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Close monitoring and prompt investigation of warning signs following surgery<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A key aspect of prevention lies in the surgical technique \u2013 for example, ensuring a tension-free, well-perfused anastomosis. These factors are influenced by the experienced surgeon. Preparation is equally important: giving up smoking, maintaining good blood sugar control and optimising nutritional status all improve the conditions for healing. Following the procedure, close monitoring is crucial for the early detection of any insufficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kosten-und-finanzielle-absicherung\">Costs and financial security<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Prolonged hospital stays, often in intensive care, are the biggest source of costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Imaging, laboratory tests and antibiotic treatment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Endoscopic procedures (stent, clip, vacuum therapy)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repeat surgery requiring hospitalisation in severe cases<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An anastomotic leak is a serious complication that can lead to a long and complex course of treatment. If it occurs following a medically necessary procedure, the statutory health insurance scheme will cover the treatment. However, following procedures carried out privately as out-of-pocket treatments that are not medically necessary, the statutory health insurance provider may refuse to cover any resulting costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this case, a <a href=\"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/en\/after-care-insurance\/\">Consequential Costs Insurance<\/a> Cover: This cover provides for medically necessary follow-up treatment following complications arising from an insured cosmetic operation \u2013 ranging from endoscopic treatment and repeat surgery to an extended hospital stay \u2013 with a free choice of doctor in the event of a claim. Whether a specific procedure is insurable depends on the type of procedure and the terms and conditions of the insurance policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-boxed has-anchor-light-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Die Folgekostenversicherung muss vor dem Eingriff abgeschlossen werden \u2013 bei 4beauty online noch bis 24 Stunden vor der Operation. Ein nachtr\u00e4glicher Abschluss nach bereits aufgetretener Komplikation ist nicht m\u00f6glich.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Further information on covered procedures can be found on the <a href=\"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/en\/after-care-insurance\/#behandlungen\">Overview page on treatments and procedures<\/a> as well as in the <a href=\"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/en\/after-care-insurance\/questions-and-answers\/\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"haufige-fragen-zur-anastomoseninsuffizienz\">Frequently asked questions about anastomotic leakage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;autoclose&quot;: false, &quot;accordionItems&quot;: [] }\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/accordion\" role=\"group\" class=\"wp-block-accordion is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-is-layout-flow\">\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-1&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-1-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-1\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">When does anastomotic leakage typically occur?<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-1\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-1-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most commonly between the third and seventh day after the operation. A characteristic feature is a deterioration following an initial improvement, with a recurrence of fever, increasing abdominal pain and a rapid heartbeat. Later onset is also possible.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-2&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-2-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-2\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">How dangerous is an anastomotic leak?<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-2\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-2-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is one of the most serious complications of abdominal surgery, as the leakage of digestive contents can lead to peritonitis and blood poisoning (sepsis). Early detection is crucial: if treated in good time, the condition can often be managed effectively.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-3&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-3-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-3\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">How is an anastomotic leak treated?<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-3\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-3-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treatment depends on the size of the perforation and the patient\u2019s condition. Small, closed perforations can be treated conservatively with antibiotics, a liquid diet and drainage. Endoscopic procedures such as stents, clips or vacuum therapy are often effective. Large leaks or peritonitis require a repeat operation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-4&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-4-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-4\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">Can anastomotic leakage be prevented?<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-4\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-4-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The risk can be reduced, but not completely eliminated. Preventive measures include a careful, tension-free surgical technique, giving up smoking before the operation, good management of underlying conditions such as diabetes, and ensuring optimal nutritional status. Close monitoring is important after the operation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-5&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-5-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-5\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">Will the health insurance fund cover the cost of treatment following a procedure paid for out of pocket?<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-5\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-5-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Following medically unnecessary procedures paid for privately, the statutory health insurance scheme may refuse to cover any resulting costs. The treatment costs must then be borne privately \u2013 unless there is a <a href=\"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/en\/after-care-insurance\/\">Consequential Costs Insurance<\/a>, which covers medically necessary follow-up treatment. The specific circumstances of each case and the terms and conditions of the insurance policy apply.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:45px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"quellen\">Sources<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.awmf.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Association of Scientific Medical Societies (AWMF): Guidelines on anastomoses and post-operative complications in visceral surgery.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dgav.de\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">German Society for General and Visceral Surgery (DGAV): Information on complications associated with abdominal surgery.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gesundheitsinformation.de\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG): Patient information on abdominal surgery.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>An anastomotic leak is a leak in a surgically created connection between two hollow organs, through which digestive contents escape into the abdominal cavity.<\/p>","protected":false},"template":"","class_list":["post-579","glossary","type-glossary","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/glossary\/579","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/glossary"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/glossary"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/4beauty-website-stage.247grad.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=579"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}