Esophagopleural fistula treated endoscopically with argon beam electrocoagulation and clips

Persistent Peristomal Leakage from Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Successfully Treated with Argon Plasma Coagulation

Introduction

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy is a safe and effective technique and its use is widely spread. Peristomal leakage may occur within the first few days after gastrostomy tube placement and also in the mature gastrostomy tract. The initial treatment involves conservative measures. If the leakage does not resolve, different endoscopic interventions could be necessary with consequent impairing of enteral nutrition and, in some cases, the need of creating a new gastro-cutaneous fistula.

Case Report

We present 4 consecutive cases complicated with late peristomal leakage and medical treatment failure. These patients underwent upper digestive endoscopy, and circumferential fulguration of the mucosa surrounding the tube with pulsed argon plasma coagulation (APC) at 50 W and 1 L/min flow rate was performed. Additional long through-the-scope clips were applied in 2 cases, since the inner orifice remained enlarged, in order to obtain a better closure. Complete leakage and skin changes resolution occurred between 2 and 6 weeks after the procedure (mean 3.5 weeks). The overall mean follow-up was 19 months after the endoscopic procedure (maximum 30 months, minimum 10 months). There was no recurrence of leakage.

Conclusion

The use of APC alone or combined with long through-the-scope clips in large internal stoma orifice resolved persistent leakage from percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in all 4 presented cases without complications. In our case series, this technique appeared to be an effective, safe, and relatively low-cost alternative to the treatment of persistent peristomal leakage of the mature gastrostomy tract.

Esophago-bronchial fistula treated by the Over-The-Scope-Clipping (OTSC) system with argon beam electrocoagulation: A case report

RATIONALE

An esophago-bronchial fistula is one of the rare postoperative complications of esophageal cancer. There are various medical treatments, including suturing, endoscopic clip, and fibrin glue. However, these treatments often lead to unsatisfactory results, causing physicians to opt for surgical alternatives. The Over-The-Scope-Clipping (OTSC) system offers an alternative method for fistula closure. It can capture a large amount of tissue and is able to compress the lesion until it has fully healed. However, data indicating the efficacy of OTSC for esophago-bronchial fistula are limited.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 64-year-old man presented with an esophago-bronchial fistula after surgery for esophageal cancer. We chose to use a stent as the first line of treatment, but the fistula did not close.

DIAGNOSES

Intractable esophago-bronchial fistula associated with esophageal surgery.

INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES

On the 94th postoperative day, fistula closure with OTSC was performed, and no leakage of the contrast agent was observed during fluoroscopy. We also attempted to close the fistula by combining OTSC and argon plasma coagulation (APC) to burn off the scar tissue from around the fistula. The fistula gradually shrank after a total of 4 rounds of OTSC, and closure of the fistula was achieved on the 185th postoperative day. There were no adverse events during the treatment of this case.

LESSONS

We demonstrate that OTSC is useful in the management of esophago-bronchial fistulas, and may become a standard procedure for the endoscopic treatment of esophago-bronchial fistulas, replacing the use of stents, clips, or glue.

Use of Argon Plasma Coagulation and Endoscopic Hemoclips for Postsurgical Gastrointestinal Fistula

A 72-year-old male was diagnosed with a duodenal mass and underwent extensive surgical resection. The patient's post-op course was complicated by an anastomotic leak that was first treated conservatively; however, his condition continued to deteriorate. An upper endoscopy was performed, which showed misplacement of drain forming a fistulous track through the lumen of the bowel. We removed the drain and used argon plasma coagulation to de-epithelize the lumen and closed the fistula with hemostasis clips. The patient's clinical status improved significantly. Our case emphasizes the success of endoscopic techniques as an alternative option in the management of postsurgical anastomotic leaks and fistulas in the right clinical setting and patient population.

Endoscopic occlusion with silicone spigots for the closure of refractory esophago-bronchiole fistula after esophagectomy

A 65-year-old man with cT1bN0M0 stage I middle thoracic esophageal cancer underwent subtotal esophagectomy and gastric tube reconstruction through the posterior mediastinal route after preoperative carbon-ion radiotherapy and chemotherapy in a clinical trial. Anastomotic leakage occurred, but it spontaneously improved. At six months after the operation, he was rehospitalized with a cough and dysphagia. An esophago-bronchiole fistula and stenosis of the gastric tube were observed. He first underwent stent placement in the gastric tube. Two weeks later, the syringeal epithelium was burned by argon plasma coagulation after stent removal. Endoscopic occlusion was then performed for the fistula with two guidewire-assisted silicone spigots. Two weeks later, he was discharged on an oral diet, and he has not developed recurrence of the fistula or cancer for three years. This is the first report of endoscopic occlusion with a guidewire-assisted silicone spigot through the esophagus.

An Endoscopic Strategy Combining Mega Stents and Over-The-Scope Clips for the Management of Post-Bariatric Surgery Leaks and Fistulas (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic stenting has proved effective in the management of post-surgical leaks but is strongly hampered by the high rate of stent migration. In this study, we evaluate our experience with a new approach involving the use of novel ultra-large expandable stents tailored for bariatric surgery leaks (Mega stents), combined with the use of the innovative over-the-scope clips (OTSC).

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients with post-bariatric surgery leaks managed at our institution by an approach combining Mega stents and over-the-scope clips.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients were treated for post-bariatric surgery leaks; 13 (59%) had a sleeve gastrectomy while nine (41%) had a RYGB. A total of 30 stents were inserted. Successful endoscopic insertion and removal were achieved in all patients. OTSC clips were applied in 12 patients (55%); five simultaneously with stents and seven after stent removal. Primary closure (after one endoscopic procedure) was achieved in 13 patients (59%) and in a total of 18 patients after multiple endoscopic procedures (82%). An average of 1.4 stents and 2.8 endoscopic procedures were required per patient. Stent migration occurred in four patients (18%), and all were retrievable endoscopically. Other complications included retrosternal pain and vomiting in 20 patients (91%) including one necessitating early removal, bleeding in two patients (9%), and perforation and esophageal stricture in one patient each (5%). Two mortalities were encountered, and one of them was stent-related (bleeding).

CONCLUSION

Mega stents are effective in the management of post-bariatric surgery leaks. The combined use of Mega stents and OTSC clips is associated with a low incidence of migration and a low number of stents and procedures required per patient.

Role of endoscopic clipping in the treatment of oesophageal perforations

With advances in endoscopic technologies, endoscopic clips have been used widely and successfully in the treatment of various types of oesophageal perforations, anastomosis leakages and fistulas. Our aim was to summarize the experience with two types of clips: The through-the-scope (TTS) clip and the over-the-scope clip (OTSC). We summarized the results of oesophageal perforation closure with endoscopic clips. We processed the data from 38 articles and 127 patients using PubMed search. Based on evidence thus far, it can be stated that both clips can be used in the treatment of early (< 24 h), iatrogenic, spontaneous oesophageal perforations in the case of limited injury or contamination. TTS clips are efficacious in the treatment of 10 mm lesions, while bigger (< 20 mm) lesions can be treated successfully with OTSC clips, whose effectiveness is similar to that of surgical treatment. However, the clinical success rate is significantly lower in the case of fistulas and in the treatment of anastomosis insufficiency. Tough prospective randomized multicentre trials, which produce the largest amount of evidence, are still missing. Based on experience so far, endoscopic clips represent a possible therapeutic alternative to surgery in the treatment of oesophageal perforations under well-defined conditions.

Endoscopic Treatment of Gastrointestinal Perforations, Leaks, and Fistulae

Gastrointestinal leaks and fistulae are common postoperative complications, whereas intestinal perforation more commonly complicates advanced endoscopic procedures. Although these complications have classically been managed surgically, there exists an ever-expanding role for endoscopic therapy and the involvement of advanced endoscopists as part of a multidisciplinary team including surgeons and interventional radiologists. This review will serve to highlight the innovative endoscopic interventions that provide an expanding range of viable endoscopic approaches to the management and therapy of gastrointestinal perforation, leaks, and fistulae.

Closure of a Chronic, Non-Healing Tracheoesophageal Fistula With a New Over-the-Scope Clip

Tracheoesophageal fistulas can arise from both benign and malignant conditions, and often present clinically as increased secretions, coughing with or without hypoxia after swallowing, and recurrent aspiration pneumonia. We describe a tracheoesophageal fistula in a post-chemotherapy lymphoma patient that was closed with use of an over-the-scope Aponos clip.

Radiologic versus endoscopic evaluation of the conduit after esophageal resection: a prospective, blinded, intraindividually controlled diagnostic study

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage is a major complication in esophageal surgery. Although contrast swallow is performed by many surgical centers before reintroduction of oral intake to exclude anastomotic leakage postoperatively, endoscopy is increasingly used in this situation and may be superior. This study compares radiographic contrast study and endoscopy for the identification of local complications after subtotal esophagectomy.

METHODS

Between January 2006 and September 2007, a prospective, blinded, intraindividually controlled study was conducted in patients who underwent transthoracic esophagectomy due to esophageal cancer. A radiographic contrast study was performed prior to endoscopy on postoperative day 5-7. Technical feasibility, sensitivity, and specificity of the radiologic and endoscopic evaluations of the esophageal substitute were described.

RESULTS

Radiographic contrast study was possible in only 64% of the patients (35 of 55). The contrast study could not be performed in 20 patients due to contraindications or mechanical ventilation. Endoscopy could be performed in all patients (p < 0.001). Pathologic findings were detected in 13 patients by endoscopy but in only 1 patient by contrast swallow. Leakage of the anastomosis or the conduit was correctly detected in 7 patients by endoscopy but in only 1 patient by contrast swallow (p = 0.01). Endoscopy detected focal conduit necrosis or ischemia in six additional patients. Contrast studies showed false-positive results in two patients. Both sensitivity and specificity of endoscopy were 100%, while sensitivity and specificity of the contrast study were only 20 and 94%. No complications resulted from postoperative endoscopy or radiologic imaging.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic evaluation of the esophageal substitute in the early postoperative course is possible in all patients without complications. Endoscopy is superior to the contrast study in detecting pathological findings after esophageal reconstruction. Radiologic contrast swallow in the early postoperative days is often not possible, has no further relevance, and should be replaced by endoscopic evaluation.

Treatment of esophagopleural fistulas using covered retrievable expandable metallic stents

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of placement of covered retrievable expandable metallic stents for esophagopleural fistulas (EPFs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

During the period 1997-2013, nine patients with EPF were treated using covered retrievable expandable metallic stents. The underlying causes of EPF were esophageal carcinoma (n = 6), lung cancer (n = 2), and postoperative empyema for Boerhaave syndrome (n = 1).

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in eight patients (88.9%). In one patient, incomplete EPF closure was due to incomplete stent expansion. Clinical success, defined as complete EPF closure within 7 days, was achieved in five patients (55.6%). Overall fistula persistence (n = 1) or reopening (n = 4) occurred in five patients (55.6%) 0-15 days after stent placement. The causes of reopening were due to the gap between the stent and the esophagus (n = 3) or stent migration (n = 1). For fistula persistence or reopening, additional interventional management, such as gastrostomy, stent removal, or stent reinsertion, was performed. Stent migration occurred as a complication in one patient with EPF from a benign cause secondary to postoperative empyema. In the eight patients who died during the follow-up period, the mean and median survival times were 78.8 days and 46 days, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Placement of a covered expandable metallic esophageal stent for the palliative treatment of EPF is technically feasible, although the rate of clinical success was poor secondary to fistula persistence or reopening. Fistula reopening was caused by the gap between the stent and the esophagus or by stent migration, and additional interventional treatment was useful to ensure enteral nutritional support.

Endoscopic clip closure of gastrointestinal perforations, fistulae, and leaks

Development of endoscopic devices to close perforations has certainly revolutionized endoscopy. Immediate closure of perforations eliminates the need for surgery, which allows us to push the limits of endoscopic surgery from the mucosal plane to deep submucosal layers and eventually transmurally. The present article focuses on endoscopic closure devices, closure techniques, followed by a review of animal and clinical studies on endoscopic closure of perforations.

Endoscopic management of complications in digestive surgery

Endoscopy has an ever-increasing role in the treatment of complications in digestive surgery. Endoscopic treatment is essentially used for (i) fistula or intra-abdominal collection secondary to anastomotic dehiscence and (ii) anastomotic stricture, especially esophagogastric, but also sometimes after colorectal surgery. First intention treatment of fistula following esophagogastric surgery is the insertion of an extractable self-expandable metallic stent (partially or entirely covered); this is supported by a low level of scientific evidence, but clinical experience has been satisfactory. Other techniques for treatment of anastomotic leak have also been reported anecdotally (clip placement, sealing with glue). There are few data available in the literature on endoscopic management (stents essentially) of postoperative colonic fistula. Whatever the approach chosen to treat a postoperative digestive tract fistula, management is medico-surgical and cannot be limited to simple closure of the digestive tube wall defect. Drainage of any collections by endoscopic, radiologic or surgical approach, systemic treatment of infection and nutritional support are essential adjuvant treatment modalities. Treatment of postoperative esophageal or colonic strictures is essentially endoscopic and is based on initial dilatation (endoscopic with hydrostatic balloon or bougie), and placement of extractable metallic stents (partially or entirely covered) in case of refractory outcome.

Combined endoscopic techniques for closure of a chronic post-surgical gastrocutaneous fistula: case report and review of the literature (with video)

Several techniques have been proposed to seal post-operative leaks endoscopicaly, however, chronic fibrosed fistulas remain a tenacious problem. We describe the success of a combination of minimally invasive peroral endoscopic techniques to seal and permanently close a chronic gastrocutaneous fistula complicating a laparoscopic gastric bypass, these techniques included: fistuloscopy, argon plasma coagulation, mucosal stripping and the novel over-the-scope clips.

A case of spontaneous esophagopleural fistula successfully treated by endoscopic stent insertion

The most common cause of esophagorespiratory fistulas (ERFs) is associated with malignancy. The use of self-expandable metal stents is effective for the treatment of malignant ERFs, but benign ERF is rare, which is why its optimal treatment is not defined yet. There have been few reports describing benign esophagopleural fistula and its treatments in South Korea. Here, we report a rare case of spontaneous esophagopleural fistula, which was successfully treated by endoscopic placement of a membrane covered metal stent.

Gastrointestinal perforations: role of endoscopic closure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Understanding the role of endoscopic closure techniques helps in expanding the endoscopist's role in the management of gastrointestinal neoplasia and explore new frontiers of minimally invasive endoluminal surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

This article covers recent advances in endoscopic closure of various gastrointestinal perforations, with a special focus on devices, experimental evidence and clinical outcomes of endoscopic closure of gastrointestinal perforations.

SUMMARY

Endoscopic closure techniques help the endoscopist to walk on thin ice and save himself and the patient in the case of mishap.

Treatment of persistently leaking post PEG tube gastrocutaneous fistula in elderly patients with combined electrochemical cautery and endoscopic clip placement

OBJECTIVES

Persistent leakage from a gastrocutaneous fistula (GCF) created for the purpose of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement is a common problem in elderly patients. Conservative methods often prove unsuccessful and surgical closure is usually not performed because of poor surgical risk. With advances in endoscopic technology, several nonsurgical approaches have emerged. These new methods have been reported in the past as case reports. The purpose of this study is to report a case series of eleven elderly patients with persistent leakage from gastrocutaneous fistulas who underwent combined electrochemical cautery and endoscopic clip placement.

METHODS

Eleven patients had failed conservative therapy and were deemed unsuitable candidates for surgical closure. Electric and chemical cauterization was used to de-epithelialize the fistulous tract. The edges of the internal orifice of the gastrocutaneous fistula were approximated using endoclips during an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Patients were observed postprocedure for leakage.

RESULTS

This procedure resulted in complete closure of the gastrocutaneous fistula in nine patients (82%). One patient had partial closure of the fistula which was sealed using a new PEG tube.

CONCLUSION

Gastrocutaneous fistula is a common complication in elderly patients after removal of gastrostomy tubes. Simple endoscopic procedures have shown promising results in the treatment of this complication.

An endoscopic repair option for acquired esophagorespiratory fistulas

Benign acquired esophagorespiratory fistulas (BERFs) represent a broad spectrum of anatomic pathology presenting in a wide variety of clinical settings. These fistulas can lead to severe respiratory compromise and rarely close spontaneously. Surgical fistula closure has been the traditional therapeutic approach, but is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The recent advent of endoscopic technologies suggests that minimally invasive procedures may offer a safe alternative to surgery for the treatment of esophagorespiratory fistulas. In this article, we present our experience in treating complex benign esophagorespiratory fistulas of diverse etiologies utilizing a primarily minimal invasive, endoscopic, or combined surgical and endoscopic approaches. Our experience demonstrates that an endoscopic-based approach is safe and technically feasible and can, potentially, spare a subset of patients from open surgery. A multidisciplinary decision-making process, based on individualized parameters, is a prerequisite for a successful outcome.

Endoscopic repair of gastrogastric fistula after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a less-invasive approach

BACKGROUND

Gastrogastric fistulas (GGFs) are a well-known complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Surgical repair of such fistulas is technically difficult, with significant associated morbidity. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic GGF closure at a university hospital in the United States.

METHODS

Patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and confirmed GGFs on esophagogastroduodenoscopy or barium study. Endoscopic repair was performed with the EndoCinch suturing system (group 1) or clips (group 2). All patients were followed up in the outpatient clinic or interviewed by telephone at 1, 6, and 18 months after the procedure, then as indicated by symptoms.

RESULTS

A total of 95 patients were included in the present series (group 1, n = 71, 75%; group 2, n = 24, 25%). The mean GGF size was significantly larger in group 1 than in group 2 (14.5 +/- 8.7 versus 7.7 +/- 6, P = .01). An average of 2.2 sutures or 3 clips (range 2-7) was used. Complete initial GGF closure was achieved in 90 patients (95%), with reopening in 59 (65%) an average of 177 +/- 202 days. The average follow-up was 395 +/- 49 days, with 22 patients lost to follow-up. Two significant complications were reported (bleeding and an esophageal tear). None of the GGFs with an initial size >20 mm remained closed during the follow-up period compared with 10 (32%) of the 31 fistulas <or=10 mm in diameter remained closed.

CONCLUSION

Peroral endoscopic repair of postbariatric GGFs is technically feasible and safe but with limited durability. The fistula size predicted for long-term outcomes, with the best results seen in fistulas <or=10 mm in diameter.

Percutaneous endoscopic suturing: an effective treatment for gastrocutaneous fistula

BACKGROUND

Development of persistent gastrocutaneous fistula and leakage after the removal of a PEG tube is a well-known complication. Various treatments including medications to alter gastric pH, prokinetic agents, endoscopic clipping/suturing, electric and chemical cauterization, argon plasma coagulation, and fibrin sealant, have been used with variable success. Although surgical closure is the current treatment of choice, most of the elderly patients are poor surgical candidates because of multiple comorbid conditions.

OBJECTIVE

We describe a method of endoscopic suturing of a gastrocutaneous fistula that is a safe and cost-effective alternative to surgical closure.

DESIGN

Individual case.

SETTING

Community hospital.

PATIENT

One elderly patient.

INTERVENTIONS

By using a trocar, we placed multiple, long monofilament sutures from the skin around the gastrocutaneous fistula in criss-cross fashion. Gastric ends of these sutures were pulled from the stomach with a snare under endoscopic visualization. Suture knots were made at the gastric end of the sutures and then were pulled back from the cutaneous side. Multiple biopsy specimens were obtained from both ends of the fistula to promote granulation tissue. Final knots were made at skin level to obliterate the fistula.

RESULT

Our procedure resulted in complete closure of a large, persistently leaking gastrocutaneous fistula in an elderly patient within 7 days. The patient tolerated the optimal rate of enteral nutrition without further leakage.

LIMITATION

Only 1 patient.

CONCLUSION

We believe that this method of endoscopic suturing along with de-epithelialization of the fistula tract for persistent gastrocutaneous fistula is a safe and cost-effective alternative to surgical closure.

Endoscopic closure of gastrointestinal leaks

Surgery has been the mainstay of therapy in patients with gastrointestinal perforations. This paradigm started to shift with the development of techniques for endoscopic closure of gastrointestinal perforations. A detailed review of the literature on this subject, along with a commentary on practical aspects in the management of patients with gastrointestinal leaks, is provided here.

Endoscopic clipping

Endoscopic clips are relatively new devices that have been shown to be effective for the control of acute gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Various different models are available and offer simplicity of use with relatively few complications. Recently, endoscopic clips have been used for a variety of non-hemorrhagic conditions. In this article we review the literature and present current thinking about the indications, efficacy and safety of these devices.

Endoscopic clips for closing esophageal perforations: case report and pooled analysis

BACKGROUND

Acute and chronic esophageal perforations have traditionally been treated with surgery or a conservative approach. Recently, endoscopic repair has been reported in some case reports.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a case of a chronic esophagoperitoneal fistula successfully closed by endoscopic clips after several failed reoperations and stent placement. To perform a pooled analysis of the reports describing such closures.

DESIGN

Case report and pooled analysis.

SETTING

Tertiary-care hospitals.

PATIENTS

Our patient presented with mature perforation in the distal esophagus caused by laparoscopic band gastroplasty. Patients for pooled analysis identified by a MEDLINE search (1966 to January 2007) performed for all the English language articles that reported esophageal perforation/fistulae and endoscopic clips.

INTERVENTIONS

Endoscopic clip application after ablation of epithelialized edges in our patient. Pooled analyses for demographic and perforation variables, along with predictors for closure time after clipping, were performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Closure of esophageal perforations.

RESULTS

The fistula in our patient closed in 3 weeks after endoscopic clipping. The literature review identified a total of 11 articles that describe 17 patients (acute 7, intermediate 4, and chronic 6). The most common cause was iatrogenic (65%), and the size of the perforation ranged from 3 to 25 mm. The median healing time after clipping was 18 days (interquartile range 6-26). Both univariable and multivariable analyses identified only the duration of perforation as a significant predictor of closure time, P values .003 and .02, respectively.

LIMITATIONS

Small sample size, nonrandomized sample.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoclips may be effective for closing both acute and chronic esophageal perforations. The duration of the perforation is a significant factor for predicting closure time.

Endoscopic management of gastrointestinal leaks

Endoscopic closure of gastrointestinal perforations, fistulas, and anastomotic dehiscence is technically feasible. Endoluminal closure of the instrumental perforations of the gastrointestinal tract can be accomplished immediately after the recognition of perforation, while avoiding the delay of arranging surgery and the trauma associated with thoracotomy or laparotomy. In addition, endoscopic closure should be considered in patients with anastomotic dehiscence and chronic fistulas as this may avoid the risk associated with reoperation. The outcome of closure depends on the technical expertise in the proper selection and use of various endoluminal closure options. Training of the endoscopists in the use of this novel technology will enhance the quality of care of our patients.

A pilot study of endoscopic closure of colonic perforations with endoclips in a swine model

BACKGROUND

Surgical closure of a colon perforation is accompanied by the risks of general anesthesia and prolonged recovery from surgery because of ileus and other sequelae. Very little is known about the effectiveness of endoluminal repair of colon perforations with clips, which eliminates incisions of the abdominal wall and provides a less invasive alternative to surgical closure. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and the safety of endoscopic closure of colonic perforations with endoclips in a porcine model.

METHODS

Approximately 1.5- to 2-cm colon perforations created with a needle knife in 4 50-kg, female pigs that were under general anesthesia were closed with endoclips. After 24 hours of recovery, the animals were allowed to eat. All the animals received intravenous antibiotics and were carefully monitored for signs of sepsis. After a follow-up of 1 week, the pigs were euthanized for postmortem examination. The fifth pig was euthanized immediately after closure of a 5-cm colon perforation with clips to evaluate the extent of transmural closure with endoclips.

RESULTS

The animals recovered well, without any clinical features of sepsis or peritonitis. Postmortem examination did not reveal fecal peritonitis, and there was no evidence of pericolonic abscess formation at the site of perforation. The perforation site showed signs of healing without any evidence of transmural dehiscence. Histopathology demonstrated granulation tissue bridging the site of perforation. In the fifth pig, euthanized immediately after closure of the perforation, nice mucosal apposition was seen, while the muscular and serosal coats remained dehisced.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic closure of small iatrogenic colon perforations with clips results in mucosal and submucosal healing and prevents fecal soiling of peritoneal cavity.

Combined endoscopic cautery and clip closure of chronic gastrocutaneous fistulas

BACKGROUND

Chronic gastrocutaneous fistula with intermittent drainage is a common outcome after removing long-standing gastrostomy tubes. The standard treatment is surgery with laparotomy and excision of the fistula tract. This study describes the results of an endoscopic closure technique by using a combination of electrocautery and metal clips.

METHODS

Three patients with gastrocutaneous fistulas (duration 3 months to 3 years) after gastrostomy tube removal were treated endoscopically by electrocautery of the tract and application of metal clips.

OBSERVATIONS

Treatment resulted in complete fistula closure in two patients and partial closure in a third patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined endoscopic therapy with electrocautery and clipping may be an alternative to surgical closure of chronic gastrocutaneous fistulas.

Endoscopic clipping of a colocutaneous fistula following necrotizing pancreatitis: case report

The case described here is of a 73-year-old male patient who developed a colocutaneous fistula following necrotizing pancreatitis, diagnosed by imaging and treated endoscopically by the application of an endoclip. Pancreatic and gastrointestinal fistulas, common complications of surgery for necrotizing pancreatitis, frequently require surgical treatment. Colonic perforations are the most difficult to treat surgically on account of the risk of peritonitis. A technique, namely, endoscopic clips application, has recently been developed to close anastomotic leakages and perforations of the oesophagus, stomach and colon. In the patient described here, endoscopic repair was technically easy and the good result was confirmed within a few days. In order to repair colonic fistulas following pancreatitis, application of endoclips could, in our opinion, provide a useful therapeutic option, feasible in selected patients.

Endoscopic clip application as an adjunct to closure of mature esophageal perforation with fistulae

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Esophageal perforation is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Surgery and drainage are considered primary management. Conservative management is an option in a select group. Conservative treatment requires drainage, control of infection, nutritional support, and considerable patience.

METHODS

We describe 3 cases in which endoscopic metallic clips were placed to close mature perforations with associated fistulae. All 3 patients underwent mucosal approximation of the defects under direct endoscopic visualization.

RESULTS

A review of the literature revealed only 4 other reports of the use of endoclipping for esophageal perforation, one diagnosed immediately, a second within 24 hours, a third diagnosed after 2 days and endoclipped after prolonged mediastinal drainage, and a fourth believed to be chronic. The cases presented here represent well-established, mature defects.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic treatment of mature esophageal perforation with metallic clips can be performed to promote closure. In combination with other conservative medical efforts, this method can be used safely and effectively for selected patients.

Endoscopic therapeutic esophageal interventions

At the close of the 20th century, therapeutic endoscopy in the esophagus has expanded to encompass a broad array of interventions. As the number of procedures grows, emphasis in the medical literature has begun to shift to analyses of which procedures should be performed. Many studies published in 1999 on topics ranging from endoscopic treatment of benign and malignant strictures, to variceal bleeding, to Barrett esophagus have focused on which of several methods provides the best long-term response with the fewest interventions. This is a review of the major published studies of endoscopic interventions in the esophagus as well as selected abstracts. The conclusions of these studies and reports of new endoscopic therapies draw a clear map of where nonoperative esophageal therapeutics are headed in the next several years.