Search

Background: Endoscopic closure techniques are effective and safe in the management of transmural gastrointestinal defects. However, there is a paucity of data regarding their comparative effectiveness. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of several new-generation, endoscopic closure devices in a pre-clinical model. Methods: We evaluated five commercially available devices: a through-the-scope clip (TTSC), an anchor-pronged TTSC, a suturing device, helical tacking system, and over-the-scope clip. We tested closure strength using an ex-vivo porcine model. Next, live animals underwent 15 mm gastric and colonic perforations followed by immediate endoscopic closure with one of the devices. We assessed technical success, 7-day survival, time to complete closure, and National Aeronautical and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) task load index. Results: A total of 60 ex-vivo closures were conducted (12 per device). The suturing device achieved a higher closure strength than all other devices (P < 0.05 for all comparisons). Technical success was achieved in 80% of cases, and 9 of 10 animals (90%) survived to 7 days post-closure. The mean procedure time for the suturing device was longer than all other devices (P < 0.05 for all comparisons). The mean procedure time for the anchor-pronged TTSC was also faster than over-the-scope clip (P = 0.04). The total endoscopist NASA-TLX score for the suturing device and helical system were greater than all other devices (P < 0.05 for all comparisons). Conclusion: Each closure device varies significantly in closure strength, closure time, and ease of use. Optimal device selection will depend on defect size, anatomic location, the viability of the surrounding tissue, and endoscopist/technician expertise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is commonly performed for the removal of large gastrointestinal lesions. Endoscopic mucosal defect closure after ESD is vital to avoid adverse events. In recent years, many innovative instruments have emerged and proved to be beneficial. In this paper, we conducted a thorough literature review and summarized the closure methods for large‐size post‐ESD mucosal defects over decades. We separated these methods into five categories based on the operational principle: "side closure" method, "ring closure" method, "layered closure" method, "hand suturing closure" method, and "specially designed device closure" method. Side closure with clips assisted by instruments such as threads or loops is applicable for each segment of the gastrointestinal tract to prevent postoperative bleeding. If the defect tension is too large to close with the traditional side closure methods, zigzag closure and ring closure could be applied to gather the bilateral defect edges together and achieve continuous closure. In the stomach and rectum with a high risk of submucosal dead space between the submucosa and muscular layers, side closure methods with muscle layer grasping clip or layered closure methods could enable the involvement of the deep submucosa and muscle layers. The ring closure method and specially designed devices including over‐the‐scope clip, Overstitch, and X‐tack could resolve perforation effectively. Individual closure method requires endoscope reinsertion or sophisticated operation, which may be limited by the deep location and the narrow lumen, respectively. Although specially designed devices are expected to offer promising prospectives, the cost‐effectiveness remains to be a problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic closure is an essential technique to perform safe advanced endoscopy. Without appropriate closure of a defect, patients can experience spillage of fecal contents into the peritoneal cavity resulting in abdominal sepsis. The essential components to performing endoscopic closure are assessing the defect appropriately and choosing the correct closure technique. Assessing the defect involves five separate elements: timing, size, depth, shape, blood flow, and location in the colon or rectum. Understanding how each of these elements contributes toward a successful closure allows an endoscopist to choose the proper technique for closure. There have been many types of closure techniques described in the literature but the most common are through the scope clips, over the scope clips, and endoscopic suturing. There are advantages and disadvantages of each of these closure techniques. In this manuscript, we will discuss these common techniques as well as some additional techniques and the situations where they can be employed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Endoscopic therapy has recently undergone remarkable progress, including the use of suturing procedures within the gastrointestinal tract using flexible endoscopes. However, existing suturing techniques primarily involve closure using instruments or continuous sutures using an endoscopic needle holder, leaving a gap in nodal suturing methods with extracorporeal ligation. This paper introduces a novel approach, the endoscopic ligation technique, wherein a flexible endoscope is utilized for nodal suturing through extracorporeal ligation.

Background: The over-the-scope clip (OTSC) is a highly effective clipping device for refractory gastrointestinal disease. However, Japanese data from multicenter studies for anastomotic leakage (AL) involving a secondary fistula after gastrointestinal surgery are lacking. Therefore, this study evaluated the efficacy and safety of OTSC placement in Japanese patients with such conditions. Methods: We retrospectively collected data from 28 consecutive patients from five institutions who underwent OTSC-mediated closure for AL between July 2017 and July 2020. Results: The AL and fistula were located in the esophagus (3.6%, n = 1), stomach (10.7%, n = 3), small intestine (7.1%, n = 2), colon (25.0%, n = 7), and rectum (53.6%, n = 15). The technical success, clinical success, and complication rates were 92.9% (26/28), 71.4% (20/28), and 0% (0/28), respectively. An age of <65 years (85.7%), small intestinal AL (100%) and colonic AL (100%), defect size of <10 mm (82.4%), time to OTSC placement > 7 days (84.2%), and the use of simple suction (78.9%) and anchor forceps (80.0%) were associated with higher clinical success rates. Conclusion: OTSC placement is a useful therapeutic option for AL after gastrointestinal surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The recently developed endoscopic full-thickness resection technique requires reliable closure. The main closure methods are the purse-string suture (PSS) technique and over-the-scope clip (OTSC) technique; however, basic data on the closure strength of each technique are lacking. This study was performed to compare the closure strengths of these two methods in an ex vivo porcine model. Methods In the traction test, a virtual 5-cm full-thickness closure line was closed by the following six methods three times each: conventional hemoclips, mucosal PSS, seromuscular PSS, mucosal OTSC, seromuscular OTSC, and surgical suture. The primary endpoint was the tension at the starting point of dehiscence, measured in Newtons (N) by an automatic traction machine. In the leak test, a 15-mm gastric full-thickness defect was closed by PSS or OTSC six times each, and the closed stomach was then pressurized in a water container. The primary endpoint was the leak pressure when air bubbles appeared. The secondary endpoints were the procedure time and presence of complete inverted closure. Results The mean tension was 2.16, 3.68, 5.15, 18.30, 19.30, and 62.40 N for conventional hemoclips, mucosal PSS, seromuscular PSS, mucosal OTSC, seromuscular OTSC, and surgical suture, respectively. Complete inverted closure was observed for seromuscular PSS, seromuscular OTSC, and surgical suture. The mean leak pressure was 13.7 and 24.8 mmHg in the PSS and OTSC group, respectively (P

Purpose: The over-the-scope endoscopic suturing system (ESS) (OverStitch™) is one of the most widely utilized endoscopic suturing systems in current clinical practice; however, data on the adverse events associated with this device is scarce. Our study aims to evaluate the adverse events and complications associated with the over-the-scope ESS using the FDA's Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database. Materials and Methods: We analyzed the post-marketing surveillance data from the FDA MAUDE database for the over-the-scope ESS from January 2008 through June 2022. Results: Eighty-three reports were filed from January 2008 to June 2022. Adverse events were classified as device-related complications and patient-related adverse events. Seventy-seven device-related issues and 87 patient adverse events were identified. The most common device-related issue was difficulty to remove after deployment (n=12, 15.58%) followed by mechanical problem (n=10, 12.99%), mechanical jam (n=9, 11.69%), or entrapment of device (n=9, 11.69%). Of the 87 patient-related adverse events, the most common was perforation (n=19; 21.84%), followed by device embedded in tissue or plaque (n=10; 11.49%), and abdominal pain (n=8; 9.20%). Of the 19 patients who experienced perforation, two required open surgical repair and one required laparoscopic surgical repair. Conclusion: The overall adverse events from the over-the-scope ESS remain acceptable as evidenced by the number of reported cases since 2008. However, it is important to note that adverse event rates might increase as the use of the device increases; therefore, it is essential for endoscopists to be aware of the potential common and rare adverse events associated with the use of the over-the-scope ESS device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The management of delayed bleeding after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is currently an important issue because of recent increases in the number of patients on antithrombotic therapy. Artificial ulcer closure has been shown to prevent delayed complications in the duodenum and colon. However, its effectiveness in cases involving the stomach remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to determine whether endoscopic closure reduces post-ESD bleeding in patients undergoing antithrombotic therapy. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 114 patients who had undergone gastric ESD while on antithrombotic therapy. The patients were allocated to one of 2 groups: a closure group (n=44) and a non-closure group (n=70). Endoscopic closure had been performed using multiple hemoclips or using the endoscopic ligation with O-ring closure method after coagulation of exposed vessels on the artificial floor. Propensity score matching resulted in 32 pairs of patients (closure vs. nonclosure 32:32). The primary outcome was post-ESD bleeding. Results: The post-ESD bleeding rate was significantly lower in the closure group (0%) than in the non-closure group (15.6%) (P=0.0264). There were no significant differences between the 2 groups regarding white blood cell count, C-reactive protein, maximum body temperature, or scores on a verbal rating scale that assesses the degree of abdominal pain. Conclusion: Endoscopic closure may contribute to decreasing the incidence of post-ESD gastric bleeding in patients undergoing antithrombotic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic submucosal dissection is an established method for complete resection of large and early gastrointestinal tumors. However, methods to reduce bleeding, perforation, and other adverse events after endoscopic resection (ER) have not yet been defined. Mucosal defect closure is often performed endoscopically with a clip. Recently, reopenable clips and large‐teeth clips have also been developed. The over‐the‐scope clip enables complete defect closure by withdrawing the endoscope once and attaching the clip. Other methods involve attaching the clip‐line or a ring with an anchor to appose the edges of the mucosal defect, followed by the use of an additional clip for defect closure. Since clips are limited by their grasping force and size, other methods, such as endoloop closure, endoscopic ligation with O‐ring closure, and the reopenable clip over‐the‐line method, have been developed. In recent years, techniques often utilized for full‐thickness ER of submucosal tumors have been widely used in full‐thickness defect closure. Specialized devices and techniques for defect closure have also been developed, including the curved needle and line, stitches, and an endoscopic tack and suture device. These clips and suture devices are applied for defect closure in emergency endoscopy, accidental perforations, and acute and chronic fistulas. Although endoscopic defect closure with clips has a high success rate, endoscopists need to simplify and promote endoscopic closure techniques to prevent adverse events after ER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The recently developed endoscopic full-thickness resection technique requires reliable closure. The main closure methods are the purse-string suture (PSS) technique and over-the-scope clip (OTSC) technique; however, basic data on the closure strength of each technique are lacking. This study was performed to compare the closure strengths of these two methods in an ex vivo porcine model. Methods: In the traction test, a virtual 5-cm full-thickness closure line was closed by the following six methods three times each: conventional hemoclips, mucosal PSS, seromuscular PSS, mucosal OTSC, seromuscular OTSC, and surgical suture. The primary endpoint was the tension at the starting point of dehiscence, measured in Newtons (N) by an automatic traction machine. In the leak test, a 15-mm gastric full-thickness defect was closed by PSS or OTSC six times each, and the closed stomach was then pressurized in a water container. The primary endpoint was the leak pressure when air bubbles appeared. The secondary endpoints were the procedure time and presence of complete inverted closure. Results: The mean tension was 2.16, 3.68, 5.15, 18.30, 19.30, and 62.40 N for conventional hemoclips, mucosal PSS, seromuscular PSS, mucosal OTSC, seromuscular OTSC, and surgical suture, respectively. Complete inverted closure was observed for seromuscular PSS, seromuscular OTSC, and surgical suture. The mean leak pressure was 13.7 and 24.8 mmHg in the PSS and OTSC group, respectively (P < 0.01). The mean procedure time was 541 and 169 s in the PSS and OTSC group, respectively (P < 0.01). Complete inverted closure was observed in OTSC alone. Conclusion: The OTSC, which allows complete inverted closure, showed greater closure strength than PSS. Considering the size limitation suitable for single OTSC, a therapeutic strategy for closing the larger size is further warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Endoscopic closures of mucosal defects following endoscopic resection can be challenging and time-consuming. The novel through-the-scope suture device has demonstrated acceptable closure times, but its learning curve is still unknown. This study aims to evaluate the number of cases required to achieve competency in this device., Methods: Two endoscopists participated; a novice with less than 400 experiences in upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and an expert with over 500 experiences in endoscopic submucosal dissection. Neither endoscopist had previous exposure to the device. In four porcine models, 24 gastric mucosal defects, each 2-4 cm in diameter, were created by endoscopic mucosal resection with ligation. Each endoscopist performed endoscopic closure for 12 mucosal defects with a single through-the-scope suture device per lesion. The primary endpoint was the number of cases needed to reach competency, defined as achieving a procedure time below the average closure time reported in the literature. Secondary endpoints included procedure time, complete closure success rates, and incidence of adverse events., Results: The mean defect size was 2.9 (±0.2) cm. Competency was achieved after six cases in the expert and seven cases in the novice. The median closure time was 9.0 (interquartile range [IQR]: 6.0-11.0) min for the expert and 8.0 (IQR: 6.2-9.7) min for the novice ( p = 0.862). Complete closure success rates were 75.0% ( n = 9) for the expert and 83.3% ( n = 10) for the novice. No adverse events were reported., Conclusions: A small number of cases were required for both expert and novice endoscopists to reach competency in the novel through-the-scope suture device., Competing Interests: Kazuki Sumiyama is a deputy editor‐in‐chief of DEN Open. The rest of the authors declare no conflict of interest., (© 2024 The Author(s). DEN Open published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.)

A 25-year-old man diagnosed with a non-seminomatous germ cell tumor was admitted to the emergency department for diffuse abdominal pain associated with bloating and multiple emetic episodes. Due to the clinical suspicion of intestinal obstruction, a contrasted abdominal tomography was performed, showing an obstruction in the third duodenal portion resulting from extrinsic compression caused by multiple retroperitoneal conglomerates. Surgical time was scheduled for a gastric bypass surgery where gastrojejunostomy was performed using conventional technique. On the fifth postoperative day, he presented clinical deterioration due to febrile episodes, abdominal pain, and tachycardia. A new abdominal tomography was performed, reporting an intra-abdominal collection of pus on the left flank of 12 x 12 x 5 cm secondary to the jejunal fistula process. Hence, percutaneous drainage management of the collection was performed by interventional radiology and drainage catheter placement. In addition, an EGD was performed to conduct a pyloric exclusion technique with an Ovesco (over-the-scope-clip) device for managing the jejunal fistula, which was technically successful. A gastrointestinal tract X-ray was performed as a follow-up during the postoperative stage, showing no pyloric continuity with adequate patency of the gastrojejunostomy. In addition, a contrasted abdominal CT scan showed a decrease in the intra-abdominal collection without extravasation of the contrast medium. This case outcome suggests the Ovesco device may be helpful in proximal GI fistulas cases, especially in patients with multiple comorbidities or poor general conditions who may benefit from minimally invasive procedures decreasing the risk of fatal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New endoscopic approaches for the prevention of delayed bleeding (DB) after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) have been reported in recent years, and endoscopic delivery of biodegradable polymers for iatrogenic ulcer hemostasis and coverage has emerged as one of the most promising techniques for post-ESD management. However, the comparative efficacy of these techniques remains uncertain. We performed a systematic search of multiple databases up to May 2022 to identify studies reporting DB rates as outcomes in patients undergoing gastric ESD who were treated with subsequent endoscopic management, including endoscopic closure (clip-based methods and suturing), PGA sheet tissue shielding, and hemostatic powder/gel spray (including polymeric sealants and other adhesives). The risk ratios (RRs) of delayed bleeding in treatment groups and control groups were pooled, and the Bayesian framework was used to perform a network meta-analysis (NMA). Among these studies, 16 head-to-head comparisons that covered 2742 lesions were included in the NMA. Tissue shielding using PGA sheets significantly reduced the risk of DB by nearly two thirds in high-risk patients, while hemostatic spray systems, primarily polymer-based, reduced DB in low-risk patients nine-fold. Researchers should recognize the essential role of polymers in the management of ESD-induced ulcers, and develop and validate clinical application strategies for promising materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute duodenal perforation during endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a serious complication. The conventional endoscopic treatment for duodenal perforations such as endoscopic clipping is unsatisfactory; recently, the effectiveness of over-the-scope clipping (OTSC) has been reported. A 91-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with the chief complaint of jaundice. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a 2-cm mass in the pancreatic head; we planned EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration. During exploration for a puncture route from the duodenal bulb using a linear echoendoscope under carbon dioxide insufflation, the duodenal lumen was suddenly filled with blood. A perforation

An 86-year-old woman presented with a history of endoscopic papillary sphincterotomy for bile duct stones and diverticulitis. The patient was admitted as an emergency case of acute cholangitis due to choledocholithiasis, underwent endoscopic bile duct stenting, and was discharged with a plan for endoscopic lithotripsy. One month later, the patient was readmitted owing to abdominal pain. Abdominal computed tomography at admission showed that the bile duct stent had migrated to the sigmoid colon and the presence of a small amount of extraintestinal gas, suggesting a colonic perforation. Lower gastrointestinal endoscopy showed adhesions and intestinal stenosis in the sigmoid colon, probably after diverticulitis, and the bile duct stent that had perforated the same site. The stent was removed and endoscopic closure of the perforation was performed using an over-the-scope clip. Abdominal computed tomography 8 days after the closure showed no extraintestinal gas. The patient resumed eating and was discharged on the 14th day of admission. There was no recurrence of abdominal pain. Endoscopic closure of sigmoid colon perforation due to bile duct stent migration using an over-the-scope clip has not been reported thus far, and it may be a new treatment option in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endoscopic treatments for gastric cancers have still been progressing even after the great success of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Summary: In further advancements of ESD, safe and less-invasive procedures are challenged by managing postoperative bleeding, one of the major adverse events in ESD. Covering the mucosal defect after removal of lesions appears reasonable and effective for preventing delayed bleeding from the post-ESD ulcers. Shielding with biodegradable sheets is attempted on clinical trials, which show equivocal results. Although suturing of the mucosal rims is technically challenging, pilot studies demonstrate favorable outcomes for avoiding post-ESD bleeding even in cases at high risk. In cases after noncurative resection of ESD, the selection of patients who truly require additional gastrectomy with lymph node dissection is important to provide necessary surgery. Risk stratification of lymph node metastases and surgery has been developed, which offers tailor-made management to each patient considering the risks and benefits. In surgery, function-preserving gastrectomy to minimize the resection area in both lymphadenectomy and the primary site is clinically introduced. The sentinel node navigation surgery is promising to realize the minimally invasive gastrectomy, and it should strongly fit ESD as well as laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery or endoscopic full-thickness resection, although nonexposure approaches are desirable. Key Message: Development for less-invasive managements on gastric cancer will be continued in step with the advancement of endoscopic treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A prior study using porcine colon demonstrated the feasibility of a novel injectable, temperature?responsive, and biodegradable collagen sol (ICS) that transforms from a liquid to a gel state in response to body temperature for endoscopic closure of perforation during endoscopic resection (ER). This study aims to report the acute and survival outcomes of ICS for gastric perforations during ER. Methods: In two experiments using nine live pigs under general anesthesia, four and six perforations (3‐5\xA0mm) were created using an electrosurgical knife in acute and survival experiments, respectively. ICS was delivered to the perforations using an endoscopic catheter. In Experiment 1, a leak test and histopathology were performed on all explanted stomachs after euthanization. In Experiment 2, perforation sites were assessed by gastroscopy and histopathology 7, 14 and 28\xA0days post?procedure. Results: In Experiment 1, gastroscopy confirmed complete closure of the perforations with ICS and no evidence of leak. Subsequent histopathology revealed a fixation of collagen gel (CG) as a sealant agent at the perforation sites. There were no adverse effects related with ESD or the use of ICS. In Experiment 2, histopathology revealed a fixation of CG as a sealant agent, replacement with granulation tissue and no CG; and fibrotic tissue at 7, 14 and 28\xA0days, respectively. Conclusions: This study presents a novel method using ICS, demonstrating promising efficacy and safety profile for endoscopic closure of perforations during ER. Further studies are necessary before translating to clinical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) poses a risk of intraprocedural perforation. We have developed a biodegradable injectable collagen sol that undergoes a liquid‐to‐gel formation in response to body temperature. Here, we investigated the feasibility of this novel collagen sol for the endoscopic closure of iatrogenic perforation holes. Methods: In two experiments, 12 and 5 colonic perforation holes (3–5 mm) were made using an ESD knife in four and three live pigs under general anesthesia, respectively. In Experiment 1, collagen sol was delivered to the perforation holes using an endoscopic catheter. When the colon was expanded by CO2 insufflation, endo‐clips were applied to the perforation holes. For Experiment 2, Collagen sol adjusted based on the Experiment 1 results was delivered to the perforation holes in the same manner. A leak test was performed for every colon after the pigs were killed, and the histology of the perforation sites was evaluated. Results: In both experiments, collagen sol was smoothly delivered to the target area and fixed as a gel on the perforation holes. Experiment 1, 83% (10/12) of the perforation holes were completely closed, and all endo‐clips were placed with composure. Experiment 2, all perforation holes were completely closed with collagen gel. There was no leak from the perforation holes. Histology revealed a fixation of the collagen gel as an embolus agent in the perforation holes. Conclusions: This novel collagen sol may be used for the endoscopic closure of intraprocedural perforation. Further studies will determine this collagen sol's clinical feasibility and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary of Event: A 2 cm-sized colonic perforation occurred during diagnostic colonoscopy. Endoscopic closure was performed immediately using detachable snare and conservative management with intravenous antibiotics was followed for several days. However, abdominal computed tomography showed huge abscess and its connection to the sigmoid colon. The patient underwent segmental colectomy, which revealed the incomplete closure of perforated lesion with severe serosal fibrotic change. Teaching Point: Endoscopic treatment of large-sized colonic perforations should be undertaken with caution since the possibility of incomplete closure is high. For large-sized colonic perforations, early surgical treatment should be preferentially considered over endoscopic treatment.

Acute duodenal perforation during endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a serious complication. The conventional endoscopic treatment for duodenal perforations such as endoscopic clipping is unsatisfactory; recently, the effectiveness of over-the-scope clipping (OTSC) has been reported. A 91-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with the chief complaint of jaundice. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a 2-cm mass in the pancreatic head; we planned EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration. During exploration for a puncture route from the duodenal bulb using a linear echoendoscope under carbon dioxide insufflation, the duodenal lumen was suddenly filled with blood. A perforation <15 mm was identified in the superior duodenal horn. We attempted an endoscopic closure with multiple endoclips but could not completely close the perforation site. Strips of bioabsorbable polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheets were placed over the gaps between the endoclips with biopsy forceps and fixed in place with fibrin glue, completely covering the perforation site. Two days after the procedure, the perforation site had closed. Nine days later, endoscopic biliary stenting was performed. The patient was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer through bile cytology, and the optimal supportive care for her age was selected. Endoscopic tissue shielding with PGA sheets and fibrin glue is increasingly being reported for use during gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures. In this case, surgery was avoided due to successful endoscopic treatment using endoclips and PGA sheets with fibrin glue without OTSC. This method may be useful for repairing acute duodenal perforations during EUS and should therefore be known to pancreatobiliary endoscopists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a well-established procedure that can provide curative resection of malignant and premalignant lesions endoscopically, thereby offering patients an effective non-operative option. Though ESD is safe and highly effective when performed in appropriately selected patients by an experienced ESD expert, it carries risks including intraprocedural and delayed perforation. This review provides a practical approach to the initial management of perforation to minimize subsequent complications. The importance of prompt recognition of perforation and early intervention cannot be overstated. This review summarizes indications for closure, anatomic considerations impacting closure, and closure techniques. This article also highlights the do's and don'ts of various closure devices, focusing particularly on advanced closure methods, the-over-the-scope clips (OTSCs) and endoscopic suturing. As ESD offers surgery-sparing alternatives to patients, advanced closure techniques allow endoscopists to effectively and promptly manage associated complications, improving the possibility of the widespread implementation of ESD in the US. With continued improvements in OTSCs and endoscopic suturing, ESD will become a stalwart of endoscopic management of malignant and premalignant gastrointestinal lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the effectiveness of over-the-scope-clip (OTSC)-based endoscopic closure in patients with perforated peptic ulcer (PPU).Methods: One hundred six patients diagnosed with PPU were treated with either OTSC (n = 26) or conservative treatments (n = 80), respectively. The outcome assessments included technical success rate, clinical success rate, post-treatment complications after 1 month, mortality rate, time to resume oral feeding, length of hospital stay, and the administration of antibiotics.Results: In the OTSC group, technical and clinical success was achieved in 100% of patients without any complications, including death, incomplete closure, duodenal obstruction, and gastrointestinal bleeding, with a median operation time of 10 min. All patients in the OTSC group were discharged, while the mortality rate in the control group was 13.8%. Subsequent surgeries were required in 30% of patients in the control group. The median times to resume oral feeding were 3.5 (interquartile range [IQR] 2.0-5.25) days in the OTSC group and 7.0 (IQR 5.0-9.0) days in the control group (p < 0.001). One month post-procedure, 30% (24/80) of patients in the control group and 0 (0/26) in the OTSC group required additional operations (p < 0.001). No significant difference was found in the length of the hospital stay and the administration of antibiotics between the two groups (p > 0.05).Conclusions: OTSC-based endoscopic technique, with a high clinical success rate and a shorter time to resume oral feeding, was effective in achieving closure of PPU with a diameter < 15 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Endoscopic over the scope clip (OTSC) closure represents a new technique for endoscopic management of enteric bleeding and tissue defects such as anastomotic leaks and enterocutaneous (EC) fistulas. We aim to describe our technical approach for OTSC closure of EC fistulas and convey our outcomes.Methods and Procedures: This retrospective review includes ten patients who underwent OTSC application for EC fistulas by surgical endoscopists at a US tertiary care hospital from July 2015 to October 2017. Demographic data, along with type of defect, location, duration of lesion, success or failure of OTSC, and nutritional status were compiled. The ACS NSQIP surgical risk calculator was used to project the risk of mortality, complications, length of stay, and risk of readmission had our patients undergone surgical correction of their fistula.Results: Overall success for EC fistula closure was 70%. Acute fistulas were closed with a success rate of 86%. Chronic fistulas were closed successfully in only 33% of cases. Of patients successfully closed, NSQIP-predicted rates of mortality, any complication, and median length of stay were 21.1%, 34.5%, and 9.5 days, respectively. With OTSC, these patients experienced 0 mortalities, 0 complications, and had a median length of stay of 4 days.Conclusion: OTSC is an effective adjunctive measure to improving rates of successful closure of EC fistulas and compromised anastomosis. OTSC conveys a markedly improved procedural risk profile as compared to standard surgical correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Full-thickness gastrointestinal defects such as perforation, anastomotic leak, and fistula are severe conditions caused by various types of pathologies. They are more likely to require intensive care and a long hospital stay and have high rates of morbidity and mortality. After intentional full-thickness opening of hollow organs for natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, safe and secure closure is urgently required. The currently available advanced endoscopic closing techniques have a major role in the treatment of full-thickness gastrointestinal defects. Appropriate usage of these techniques requires taking into account their advantages and limitations during practical application. We reviewed the available endoscopic modalities, including endoscopic clips, stents, vacuum-assisted closure, gap filling, and suturing devices, discussed their advantages and limitations when treating full-thickness gastrointestinal defects, and explored emerging innovations, including a novel endoluminal surgical platform for versatile suturing and a cell-laden scaffold for effective gap filling. Although these emerging technologies still require further pre-clinical and clinical trials to assess their feasibility and efficacy, the available modalities may be replaced and refined by these new techniques in the near future.

The management strategy for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography-related duodenal perforation can be determined based on the site and extent of injury, the patient’s condition, and time to diagnosis. Most cases of perivaterian or bile duct perforation can be managed with a biliary stent or nasobiliary drainage. Duodenal wall perforations had been treated with immediate surgical repair. However, with the development of endoscopic devices and techniques, endoscopic closure has been reported to be a safe and effective treatment that uses through-the-scope clips, ligation band, fibrin glue, endoclips and endoloops, an over-the-scope clipping device, suturing devices, covering luminal stents, and open-pore film drainage. Endoscopic therapy could be instituted in selected patients in whom perforation was identified early or during the procedure. Early diagnosis, proper conservative management, and effective endoscopic closure are required for favorable outcomes of non-surgical management. If endoscopic treatment fails, or in the cases of clinical deterioration, prompt surgical management should be considered.

Periampullary diverticulum presenting with severe complications, such as perforations, is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Traditionally, only surgical or conservative management has been warranted. In this case, we present a 76-year-old woman with a spontaneously perforated periampullary diverticulum, located within a larger duodenal diverticulum, who achieved complete recovery with endoscopic closure after an initial unsuccessful attempt at surgical management. This case report highlights the role of endoscopy in the treatment of complicated diverticulum perforation., (© 2023 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of The American College of Gastroenterology.)

Rescue therapy for gastrointestinal (GI) refractory bleeding, perforation, and fistula has traditionally required surgical interventions owing to the limited performance of conventional endoscopic instruments and techniques. An innovative clipping system, the over‐the‐scope clip (OTSC), may play an important role in rescue therapy. This innovative device is proposed as the final option in endoscopic treatment. The device presents several advantages including having a powerful sewing force for closure of GI defects using a simple mechanism and also having an innovative feature, whereby a large defect and fistula can be sealed using accessory forceps. Consequently, it is able to provide outstanding clinical effects for rescue therapy. This review clarifies the current status and limitations of OTSC according to different indications of GI refractory disease, including refractory bleeding, perforation, fistula, and anastomotic dehiscence. An extensive literature search identified studies reported 10 or more cases in which the OTSC system was applied. A total of 1517 cases described in 30 articles between 2010 and 2018 were retrieved. The clinical success rates and complications were calculated overall and for each indication. The average clinical success rate was 78% (n = 1517) overall, 85% for bleeding (n = 559), 85% (n = 351) for perforation, 52% (n = 388) for fistula, 66% (n = 97) for anastomotic dehiscence, and 95% (n = 122) for other conditions, respectively. The overall and severe OTSC‐associated complications were 1.7% (n = 23) and 0.59% (n = 9), respectively. This review concludes that the OTSC system may serve as a safe and productive device for GI refractory diseases, albeit with limited success for fistula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Study Aims: Post-laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) fistula is a major complication, responsible for high morbidity. Endoscopic treatment represents an alternative to surgical management, with variable approaches and success rates. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic treatment in a tertiary care center.Patients and Methods: Between March 2010 and March 2015, all patients referred to our center for endoscopic treatment of fistula related to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy were included. The primary endpoint was defined as a complete closure of the fistula without recurrence within the 2 months.Results: A total of 26 patients were retrospectively included (73% female). The mean time between fistula diagnosis and first endoscopy was 27.4 days (± 22). Twenty-three (88.4%) patients had a complete fistula closure after endoscopic treatment. The healing delay was 76.4 days (± 42.8), and an average of 3.5 (± 1.4) endoscopic procedures were required. Clinical efficacy was 100% when the endoscopic treatment was performed within the first 3 weeks, or 70% afterwards (p = 0.046). The fistula closure rate was similar between patients with endoscopic drainage (with or without other endoscopic techniques) and patient with closing techniques alone (85.7% vs. 89.5%, respectively).Conclusion: Endoscopic treatment of fistula after LSG is efficient but requires early procedures within the first 3 weeks. Endoscopic strategies involving closing procedure or drainage procedure seem to be similar, but these data must be confirmed in large prospective clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: Gastrointestinal transmural defects are defined as total rupture of the gastrointestinal wall and can be divided into three main categories: perforations, leaks, and fistulas. Due to an increase in the number of therapeutic endoscopic procedures including full-thickness resections and the increase incidence of complications related to bariatric surgeries, there has been an increase in the number of transmural defects seen in clinical practice and the number of non-invasive endoscopic treatment procedures used to treat these defects.Recent Findings: The variety of endoscopic approaches and devices, including closure techniques using clips, endoloop, and endoscopic sutures; covering techniques such as the cardiac septal occluder device, luminal stents, and tissue sealants; and drainage techniques including endoscopic vacuum therapy, pigtail, and septotomy with balloon dilation are transforming endoscopy as the first-line approach for therapy of these conditions.Summary: In this review, we describe the various transmural defects and the endoscopic techniques and devices used in their closure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic submucosal dissection is established as a curative endoscopic method for gastrointestinal epithelial neoplasms with a high possibility of complete en bloc resection; however, postoperative adverse events of bleeding and delayed perforation remain. To prevent or minimize them, several techniques for endoscopic mucosal closure have been introduced, such as using endoscopic clips, combined use of hemoclips and supplement devices, and specially designed endoscopic suturing devices. Furthermore, endoscopic full-thickness suturing technique for gastrointestinal wall defect has been developed based on the concept in natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery and endoscopic full-thickness resection. Several closure techniques, including over-the-scope clip, threaded bars inserted in a hollow needle, stitches or staplers, and a curved needle and thread are reported. Secure closure of the iatrogenic defect may further expand the range of therapeutic endoscopy. Accumulation of evidence for the efficacy of endoscopic closure and establishment of these techniques are desired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bronchopleural fistulas can occur as a rare but severe complication after pulmonary resection. Established guidelines for the proper treatment of patients with bronchopleural fistulas do not exist. Apart from attempts to close the fistula, emphasis is placed on preventive measures, early treatment with antibiotics, drainage of the empyema and aggressive nutritional and rehabilitative support. For inoperable patients, endoscopic procedures are the only therapeutic option. Unfortunately, large (>8 mm) or central bronchopleural fistulas are usually not suitable for such endoscopic management. Recently, some groups have published a few case reports about a novel technique for the endobronchial closure of bronchopleural fistulas, using an Amplatzer device, originally designed for transcatheter closure of cardiac septal defects. We applied the same technique as a life-saving treatment in a ventilated patient who was considered inoperable due to a high oxygen need. The operation was successful. The patient could be weaned from ventilation and was eventually discharged from the hospital to a rehabilitation facility several weeks after the insertion of the device. Until now, endoscopic techniques have only been useful for the treatment of small, peripheral, bronchopleural fistulas and even then only as a bridge to surgery in high-risk surgical patients. In this case report, we demonstrate that the use of an Amplatzer device can expand the importance of endoscopic techniques in the treatment of bronchopleural fistulas. An Amplatzer device, for endobronchial closure, can indeed be administered for large and central bronchopleural fistulas. Moreover, it can be considered as a definite alternative to surgery in inoperable patients.

Endoscopic closure is an essential technique to perform safe advanced endoscopy. Without appropriate closure of a defect, patients can experience spillage of fecal contents into the peritoneal cavity resulting in abdominal sepsis. The essential components to performing endoscopic closure are assessing the defect appropriately and choosing the correct closure technique. Assessing the defect involves five separate elements: timing, size, depth, shape, blood flow, and location in the colon or rectum. Understanding how each of these elements contributes toward a successful closure allows an endoscopist to choose the proper technique for closure. There have been many types of closure techniques described in the literature but the most common are through the scope clips, over the scope clips, and endoscopic suturing. There are advantages and disadvantages of each of these closure techniques. In this manuscript, we will discuss these common techniques as well as some additional techniques and the situations where they can be employed., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Background: Both over-the-scope clip (OTSC) and KING (endoloop + clips) closures provide reliable and safe full-thickness endoscopic closure. Nevertheless, OTSC clip demonstrated significantly inferior histological healing in the short-term follow-up.Aim: To compare OTSC versus KING closure of a perforation with regard to long-term effectiveness and macroscopic and histological quality of healing.Methods: We performed a randomized experimental study with 16 mini-pigs (mean weight 43.2 ± 11.2 kg). A standardized perforation was performed on the anterior sigmoid wall. KING closure (n = 8) was attained by approximation of an endoloop fixed to the margins of a perforation with endoclips. OTSC closure (n = 8) was performed by deploying OTSC (OVESCO) over the defect. Pigs underwent a control sigmoidoscopy 8 months after the closure to assess the macroscopic quality of healing. Then, autopsy was performed and the rectosigmoid was sent for histopathological assessment.Results: All closures were completed successfully without air leaks. The duration of closure was similar in both techniques (OTSC 17.8 ± 7.6 min vs. KING 19.6 ± 8.8 min). At autopsy, all KING closures (100 %) were healed with a flat scar without signs of leakage. Microscopically, no inflammatory changes were observed after KING closure. In the OTSC group, microscopic ulcers were present in two pigs (25 %), cryptal abscesses in three pigs (38 %) and significant neutrophil accumulation in all eight pigs (P < 0.01). Giant cell granulomas, dysplasia or abundant scarification was not observed in either group.Conclusions: Both OTSC and KING closures offer a long-term reliable seal of a gastrointestinal perforation without stenosis or fistulas. KING closure provides long-term histologically superior healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Existing endoclip closure devices have difficulty in closing large colonic perforation. We developed a novel endoscopic multi-firing-clip applicator (EMFCA) system to address these limitations, and report on its initial evaluation. Material and methods:The functionality and efficacy of the prototype EMFCA equipped with re-openable clamp and preloaded with four clips were assessed using standardized 1.5 cm incisions created inex-vivoporcine colonic segments. Endoscopic closure of the lacerations with two, three and four clips (n = five for each group) was followed by measurement of the leakage pressure of the three groups. Finite element analysis (FEA) was performed to validate the clip behavior and reliability during deployment. Results:All 15 perforations were sealed without leakage until fully distended. The leakage pressures of colonic lacerations sealed with two, three, and four clips were 26.1 ± 2.8 mmHg, 37.3 ± 7.3 mmHg and 42.3 ± 7.4 mmHg, respectively. The mean operation time to deploy one clip was 25.4 ± 5.2 seconds. On FEA, the deformation of the shape of the clip matched that of the intended design, with each clip sustaining a maximum stress of 648.5 MPa without any material failure during deployment. Conclusions:These initial results confirm the efficacy of the EMFCA prototype system for endoscopic closure of colonic perforations. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Yamamoto et al. report two cases of endoscopic closure using an over-the-scope clip for scope-induced perforation encountered during endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, respectively. In a supporting video, they explain how to prepare the over-the-scope clip and clearly show how the actual procedures were performed., (© 2022 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

Background and Aim Iatrogenic perforation of the gut during endoscopy remains an uncommon but critical complication with significant morbidity and probable mortality than usual surgical treatment. Some authors have adopted a non-surgical closure method in chosen cases and, since 1993, endoclips have been used to close perforation in the stomach. The endoscopic practice of endoclips has been commonly used in the gut for hemostasis. Currently, the use of endoscopic techniques is increasing for the closure of endoscopic submucosal dissection or endoscopic mucosal resection. Endoscopic perforations that improved with endoscopic closure in the literature prior to 2008 have been previously described. In the present article, we present a descriptive review of cases with iatrogenic perforation in the gut treated with endoclips between 2008 and 2014. Methods Comprehensive literature screening and a systematic review using PubMed and Medline was done for all reports published between January 2008 and December 2014 using the endoclip technique in the closure of iatrogenic perforations. Results A total of 47 studies published between 2008 and 2014 using endoclips for the closure of iatrogenic perforations of the gut (nine esophagus, 11 stomach, 15 duodenum, 12 colon and rectum) were found. All studies were explained briefly and summarized in a table. Conclusions There is strong evidence to show the efficacy of endoclips in the management of iatrogenic perforations, especially when recognized early. Limitations of endoclipping such as inefficiency against large perforations may be overcome by improving novel techniques in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Duodenal endoscopic submucosal dissection ( ESD) is technically challenging because of anatomical specificities and, to date, has not been validated concerning the high rate of complications such as perforation and delayed bleeding. In the present study, the risk factors for delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD are presented with the goal of establishing preventive measures. Methods We analyzed 63 patients with non-ampullary superficial duodenal neoplasias treated by ESD from April 2005 to March 2014. To analyze the risk factors of delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD, we divided the patients into a delayed bleeding group and a non-bleeding group. To verify the risk factors of delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD, we analyzed various patient-, lesion-, and treatment-related factors. Results Delayed bleeding was experienced in 11 patients (17.5%) Univariate analysis of patient-related risk factors of delayed bleeding indicated no significant risk factor. Univariate analysis of lesion-related and treatment-related risk factors indicated only endoscopic closure as a significant risk factor. Multivariate analysis also identified endoscopic closure (not done > done: P = 0.049) as an independent factor significantly associated with delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD. Hypertension (present > absent: P = 0.055) showed a non-significant tendency of association by multivariate analysis. Conclusions This retrospective evaluation found that endoscopic closure was associated with a reduced risk of delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD. Delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD might be prevented by prophylactic endoscopic closure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bleeding is a relatively rare complication occurring mainly after snare polypectomy. The majority of cases can be managed successfully by endoscopic means leaving very few cases which will ultimately need an operation. Colonic perforation, on the other hand is a serious complication that requires intensive and careful management. Prompt recognition of the perforation during the procedure allows, in selected cases, immediate endoscopic closure with an uneventful and full recovery followed by close monitoring and surgical management in case of clinical deterioration. The criteria for the right selection of perforation cases amenable to endoscopic treatment do still need to be confirmed by prospective studies and further experience is required before a standard algorithm on the endoscopic management of perforations is developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]