Treatment of esophagogastric anastomotic leak with perianastomotic drain

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:: The most efficient treatment of such anastomotic leaks after esophagectomy remains controversial. Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of perianastomotic drains in anastomotic leaks. METHODS:: Five patients with intrathoracic anastomotic leaks had placement of perianastomotic drains through remanet esophagus and fitula into infected area. The other conservative methods of treatment were also chosen simultaneously. RESULTS:: The perianastomotic drains were placed successfully in all five patients. None of the patients underwent rethoracotomy. They were all cured. The median period to clinical healing was 33 days. The median hospital stay after the perianastomotic drainage procedure was 37 days. CONCLUSION:: This procedure proved to be safe and effective in the treatment of esophagogastric anastomotic leak with perianastomotic drain through fistula. © 2010 by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer.