Endoscopic vacuum therapy for esophageal perforations and leakages

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.