Initial experience with the endoscopic application of fibrin tissue adhesive in the upper gastrointestinal tract

During a 15-month period, a total of 11 patients underwent endoscopic application of fibrin tissue adhesive in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Our sample consisted of 6 patients with control of bleeding, 4 patients with management of anastomotic leaks, and one very old man undergoing prophylactic sealing of a chronic gastric ulcer with a visible vessel and repeated episodes of bleeding. The method described has proven to be successful in control of bleeding in every case and has resulted in quick cleaning of perianastomotic abscess cavities, growth of granulation tissue, and complete healing in 3 of 4 cases so far. This preliminary report suggests that fibrin adhesive application is effective in the control of oozing gastrointestinal bleeding and may support the healing process in difficult situations, such as chronic peptic ulcers and anastomotic leakages.