A delayed presentation of Boerhaave's syndrome with mediastinitis managed using the over-The-scope clip

Abstract

Boerhaave syndrome is a spontaneous perforation of the oesophagus secondary to forceful emesis. Surgery has been advocated in delayed presentations of Boerhaave's syndrome with mediastinitis. The over-The-scope clip (OTSC) by OVESCO® (Tubingen, Germany) has been used in the endoscopic management of gastrointestinal bleeds, fistulae and anastamotic leaks. We describe the successful endoscopic use of the OTSC in a delayed presentation of Boerhaave syndrome with mediastinitis. A 69-year-old gentleman underwent a computerised tomography scan, which demonstrated a lower oesophageal perforation and mediastinitis 7 days after admission, having presented with forceful emesis and chest discomfort. During endoscopy the defect was visualized and successfully closed using the OTSC. This resulted in a favourable outcome and is a technique not previously described in the literature to manage this condition.