Abstract Background Endoluminal vacuum therapy (EVT, Eso-SPONGE ® ) is an effective treatment for leaks following metabolic-bariatric surgery (MBS), used for staple line- or anastomotic leakage. While EVT is conventionally placed using an overtube, the pull-through technique is a convenient alternative for hardly accessible dehiscence or large wound cavity, allowing precise sponge placement for optimal drainage. This analysis provides a technical note and evaluates pull-through EVT’s efficacy in MBS patients. Material 100%). Self-expanding metal stent was used in 4/7 cases (57.1%) additionally. EVT was changed 9.6 times (3–33) with EVT duration of 30.8 days (11–97). No severe device-related complications were observed. Successful leak closure with EVT was achieved in 85.7%. Conclusion EVT via pull-through technique is effective and feasible for managing leaks after MBS when targeted drainage is available. It allows precise EVT placement and enhanced tissue healing, potentially reducing necessity for further reoperation in critically ill patients.
Gensthaler et al. (Tue,) studied this question.