Endoscopic vacuum therapy for treatment of spontaneous and iatrogenic upper gastrointestinal defects.

Background/aims: Endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) can heal a variety of defects within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract via applying negative pressure, which reduces the defect size, aspirates the infected fluid, and promotes granulation tissue. Here we present our experience with EVT as it relates to both spontaneous and iatrogenic upper GI tract perforations, leaks, and fistulas.

Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at four large hospital centers.