Endosc Int Open 2015; 03(06): E554-E558
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1392568
Original article
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Endoscopic vacuum therapy for esophageal perforations and leakages

Oliver Möschler
1   Department of Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology, Marienhospital Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
,
Christoph Nies
2   Department of Surgery, Marienhospital Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
,
Michael K. Mueller
1   Department of Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology, Marienhospital Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
11 August 2015 (online)

Zoom Image

Background and study aims: Injuries to the esophageal wall, such as perforations and anastomotic leaks, are serious complications of surgical and endoscopic interventions. Since 2006, a new treatment has been introduced, in the form of endoscopically placed vacuum sponge therapy.

Patients and methods: Between April 2012 and October 2014, 10 patients (5 men and 5 women) aged 57 to 94 years were treated at our institution using endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) in the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Results: The defect in the esophageal wall was successfully closed in seven of the 10 patients (70 %). No severe complications occurred.

Conclusions: EVT is a valuable tool for management of defects in the esophageal wall and should be considered as a treatment option for patients with this condition.