Modified Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy for Nonhealing Esophageal Anastomotic Leak: Technique Description and Review of Literature

Abstract

Background: Endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure (EVAC) therapy is increasingly being used as a new promising method for repairing upper gastrointestinal defects of different etiologies with high success rates. EVAC therapy consists of placing a sponge either within the lumen or within an abscess cavity connected with a nasogastric (NG) tube to a negative pressure system, thus decreasing bacterial contamination and edema and promoting granulation tissue proliferation, thereby gradually decreasing the cavity size until complete closure. Herein, we describe a modified technique for EVAC therapy in which the NG tube is passed into the esophagus through an existing intrapleural drain tract using a rendezvous technique. The small residual fistula was amendable to fibrin glue embolization. This allows easier sponge placement and exchange compared to traditional EVAC technique, and allows oral intake during treatment. We also review the literature regarding other endoscopic treatment options for esophageal anastomotic leaks and perforations.

Methods: The PubMed database was searched using the terms "esophagus," "esophageal," "leak," "fistula," "endoluminal vacuum-assisted closure (VAC)," "endoscopic VAC," "stent," "sealant," "glue," and "over-the-scope clip (OTSC)." Reference lists of identified articles were searched for further articles, and the "similar articles" function was used on all included articles.

Results: Complete closure of the nonhealing fistula was achieved after 8 days of EVAC treatment and fibrin glue embolization.

Conclusions: Modified EVAC technique as described is feasible and safe. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of this technique. The technique allows easier sponge placement and exchange compared to traditional EVAC technique, and allows oral intake during treatment.

Keywords: anastomotic leakage; endoscopic treatment; esophageal fistula; esophagectomy.