Experience with endoluminal vacuum therapy in the management of esophageal anastomotic leakage in newborns with esophageal atresia: A case series

Abstract

Background: The management of dehiscence of esophageal anastomosis is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary approach. Endoluminal vacuum therapy (EVT) has shown promising results. Case Presentation: Herein we present the data of two cases with esophageal atresia who developed esophageal anastomotic leakage, during 2021-2022, and who underwent EVT. The first case had 60% dehiscence of the anastomosis, anastomotic leak repair was performed followed by esophageal EVT placement. In the second case, the dehiscence was limited to 10%, and only esophageal EVT was provided. Within four and six days of EVT, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and fluoroscopy were performed which showed tissue proliferation in situ and the absence of contrast leakage. Both patients were able to resume oral tolerance on the 4th day. Conclusion: Esophageal EVT has shown promising results in the management of esophageal anastomotic leakage in newborns with esophageal atresia.