An anvil and anvil delivery system is provided which includes a head assembly and a center rod defining a longitudinal axis. The head assembly defines a transverse axis and is pivotally secured to the rod and movable from an operative position wherein the transverse axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a tilted position wherein the transverse axis defines an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. A flexible tube is secured to the center rod which includes gradations along the length of the tube. The gradations are positioned to provide an indication of a length of the tube remaining in a patient during removal of the tube from the patient. An adapter is secured to one end of the flexible tube and to the center rod. The adapter is configured to secure the anvil assembly to the flexible tube.