The Combined Use of Endoluminal Stents and Over-The-Scope Clips for the Management of Post-Esophageal Surgery Leaks

Postoperative leakage at the esophagogastric anastomosis is a well-recognized and significant complication following esophagectomy. In the past, treatment options were largely confined to either conservative, nonsurgical management or removal of the gastric conduit with construction of a cervical esophagostomy. Over the last decade, the development of endoluminal stents and endoscopic clipping techniques has provided a less invasive alternative, enabling effective closure of leaks without the need for further surgery and preserving the continuity of the reconstructed esophagus.

This report presents our initial clinical experiences with the combined use of stents and clips. It also reviews up-to-date evidence on patient selection, available stent designs, treatment success rates, procedure-related considerations, and the anticipated role of endoscopic approaches in managing postoperative esophagogastric anastomotic leakage.

We report 3 cases who underwent endoscopic management for esophagogastric anastomotic leak with a combination of stent and clips. The success of the procedure was determined on the extent of the defect and source management, which frequently necessitated concurrent drainage and antibiotic therapy.

Conservative approaches have become increasingly significant in the treatment of anastomotic leaks following esophageal surgery. Our experience demonstrates that some challenging cases can be treated with a combination of endoscopic therapy methods.