Endoscopic vacuum therapy: pitfalls, tips and tricks, insights, and perspectives

Endoscopic vacuum therapy for the management of nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a valuable resource for the endoscopist's toolbox

Endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) is a well-established method for managing gastrointestinal perforations. During the COVID pandemic, case reports demonstrated the effective use of EVT in controlling COVID-related diffuse duodenal bleeding. Owing to its unique mechanism of action, this approach may also be effective for other types of nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB). This study aimed to assess EVT in the treatment of NVUGIB.This retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database included patients who underwent EVT for the treatment of NVUGIB. The primary outcome was clinical success. Secondary outcomes included technical success and safety. Subgroup analysis comparing the outcomes for patients with and without COVID was conducted.19 patients underwent EVT for NVUGIB, with 57.9% having failed other therapies. Technical success occurred in all patients, and clinical success was achieved in 89.5%. There was no difference in the clinical success rates between patients with or without COVID (88% versus 91%, respectively). No procedure-related adverse events occurred. EVT appears to be safe and effective in the management of NVUGIB. This approach could be particularly useful in refractory or diffuse bleeding. Larger studies are warranted to validate these findings.

Stent-Over-Sponge (SOS) as a Rescue Technique for Leak Post-Bariatric Surgery: Experience From Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur, Canada

Leaks and fistulas are serious complications following gastrointestinal surgeries, traditionally managed by self-expandable metal stents and endoscopic vacuum therapy. The stent-over-sponge (SOS) technique is a new modality used as a rescue option when other interventions fail. This report presents the case of a 60-year-old female patient who underwent revisional bariatric surgery and developed a leak post-operation. Initial management included endoscopic debridement and the placement of an Endo-VAC system. Due to technical difficulties, the sponge was left in an endoluminal position, leading to migration. A partially covered stent was placed to prevent further migration and facilitate healing. The patient experienced complications, including hematemesis, but ultimately achieved complete leak closure and is asymptomatic six months post-treatment. In this case, the SOS technique demonstrates its safety and efficacy in dealing with post-operative leaks in patients having undergone bariatric surgery, which would justify performing more extended evaluative studies.

Endoscopic vacuum therapy for leaky cavities: is it possible?

A 71-year-old male patient with a history of bladder neoplasia underwent Bricker-type surgery, during which an iatrogenic rectal injury occurred. During surgery, an unsuccessful suture attempt was made, leading to the appearance of fecaluria after 48 hours. A computed tomography scan revealed a small continuity defect in the rectal wall, accompanied by a 25-mm adjacent collection. Percutaneous drainage was placed in an attempt to achieve spontaneous closure, but this was unsuccessful. A rectoscopy was performed, identifying a wall defect in the mid-rectum. A review with a paediatric gastroscope confirmed communication to a cavity drained by urethra (recto-urethral fistula). Endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) (Endo-SPONGE®, B.Braun; Melsungen, Hesse, Germany) was initiated, achieving negative pressures (KCI Acelity V.A.C.® ATS® Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Unit; -100 mmHg). An endoscopic review after 72 hours confirmed the appearance of granulation tissue and the initiation of cavity closure. After three replacements (a total of four sponges), cavity collapse was achieved, but complete closure of the orifice was not attained. An over-the-scope clip (OTSC® 11.5-14 mm type-t, Ovesco; Tübingen, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) was placed, but fecaluria persisted, albeit with lesser intensity. Ultimately, successful closure was achieved by placing a second over-the-scope clip, two conventional hemoclips (Novaclip-R3 16 mm, Vytil; Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China), and instilling endoscopic biodegradable cyanoacrylate adhesive (Glubran® 2, GEM; Viareggio, Lucca, Italy).