Endoscopic treatment of anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy or gastrectomy for carcinoma with self-expanding removable stents.

Background/aims: Anastomotic leakage is a feared complication after gastrectomy and esophagectomy. We report our experience in the treatment with endoscopic stent placement.

Methodology: Seventeen patients with anastomotic leakage after resection of a malignant tumor of the stomach or the distal esophagus have been long-term followed-up.