Endoscopic repair of gastric leaks after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a less invasive approach

BackgroundGastric leaks represent an important source of morbidity and mortality associated with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. These leaks, once managed acutely, can become chronic and represent a difficult clinical challenge. Surgical options to address a chronic gastric leak are technically challenging and often unsuccessful. We present a novel peroral endoscopic treatment for patients with chronic gastric leaks after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.DesignCase series.InterventionsRepair of chronic gastric leaks after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass by using a combination of argon plasma coagulation, hemoclips, fibrin glue, Polyflex stent placement, and distal gastrojejunal stenosis dilation. The goal was to achieve durable fistula closure and avoid surgery.Main Outcome MeasurementsDurable fistula closure as assessed by an upper-GI series and clinical evaluation.ResultsGastric leak closure was achieved in all 3 patients, with complete resolution of symptoms. Polyflex stent migration into the Roux limb occurred in 1 patient, and this was retrieved endoscopically. There were no other significant complications.ConclusionsPeroral endoscopic repair of gastric leaks is technically feasible. This procedure may offer a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical revision.