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ASGE DDW Videos from Around the World | 2025
ENDOSCOPIC CLOSURE OF A LARGE GASTRO-GASTRIC FISTU ...
ENDOSCOPIC CLOSURE OF A LARGE GASTRO-GASTRIC FISTULA
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Video Transcription
Endoscopic closure of a large gastrogastric fistula. We don't have any disclosures. The rise in bariatric and other surgical procedures has led to an increased incidence of GI fistulas. While surgical management was initially the standard of care, endoscopic therapies have since emerged, offering improved outcomes. However, endoscopic fistula closure remains particularly challenging, especially in cases with large defects. We present the successful closure of a remarkably large gastrogastric fistula in a patient with a history of gastric bypass surgery. A 46-year-old male with a history of morbid obesity, hypertension, and gastric bypass surgery 20 years ago was being evaluated for difficulty of losing weight. Further evaluation, including imaging, revealed the presence of a GI fistula. The patient was referred for assessment, possible fistula closure, and consideration of a transoral outlet reduction endoscopy procedure. The patient underwent EGD to evaluate the fistula previously seen on imaging. The anatomy was consistent with gastric bypass. A large 15-centimeter fistula connecting the gastric pouch to the excluded stomach was identified. The rim of the fistula was treated with organ plasma coagulation, promoting granulation tissue formation and enhancing the healing response. Sutures were placed circumferentially along the edges of the fistula to draw the margins together and ensure a tight closure. Puristat was dispensed via a catheter and distributed evenly over the closure site, promoting cell proliferation and wound healing. The patient underwent an EGD to evaluate the anatomy and locate the fistula. A large 15-centimeter fistula was identified connecting the gastric pouch to the excluded stomach. An APC catheter was then mounted on the scope. The rim of the fistula was carefully treated using APC to promote granulation tissue formation and enhance the healing response. Then, using an overstitch device, five different sutures were placed circumferentially around the fistula. These sutures were then all tightened at the end to ensure a secure closure. Pirasta was applied over the suture site and evenly distributed to support cell proliferation and wound healing. The area was re-examined endoscopically to confirm adequate closure and ensure there was no residual fistula or leakage. That's before and after where we can see complete fistula closure. To date, no clear guidelines exist for fistula management, and determining the optimal treatment strategies for these complex cases remains challenging. We present the successful closure of a remarkably large gastrogastric fistula using a combination of thermal therapy and suturing. This case highlights the importance of a patient-tailored approach in managing complex fistulas on a case-by-case basis.
Video Summary
A rise in bariatric surgeries has increased the incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) fistulas, traditionally managed surgically. Endoscopic therapies now offer improved outcomes, yet closing large fistulas remains challenging. This case study details a successful endoscopic closure of a 15-centimeter gastrogastric fistula in a 46-year-old post-gastric bypass patient. The procedure involved endoscopic evaluation, organ plasma coagulation, and circumferential suturing with the application of Puristat to enhance healing. Endoscopic evaluation showed complete closure. The case underscores the necessity for personalized treatment and highlights advances in endoscopic approaches for managing complex fistulas effectively.
Asset Subtitle
Joelle Sleiman
Keywords
bariatric surgery
endoscopic therapy
gastrointestinal fistula
gastrogastric fistula
personalized treatment
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