A novel dedicated endoscopic stent for staple-line leaks after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: a case series

Staple-line leak is the most serious complication of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) occurring in .5-7% of cases. Patients with this complication are often managed with an esophageal covered, self-expandable metal stent positioned at endoscopy. Unfortunately, migration of these stents has been reported in 30-50% of cases. A novel fully-covered, self-expanding metal stent (Megastent), specifically designed for post-LSG leaks is now available. The objective of this study was to describe the first case series of patients with a staple-line leak after LSG who were endoscopically managed with such a novel stent.

Four patients who developed a staple-line leak after LSG were treated by positioning a Megastent at endoscopy. The stents were removed after 8 weeks.

A complete leak repair was achieved in all patients. No stent migration occurred. Prokinetic therapy was needed to treat vomiting episodes during stent presence. At endoscopic evaluation after stent removal, a decubitus lesion at the distal part of the duodenal bulb was observed.

These preliminary results would suggest the use of the Megastent as an option for stenting of a staple-line leak after LSG. Further studies are still necessary.