A novel endoscopic treatment for anastomotic leakage post anterior resection: Padlock over the scope clip

Background Anastomotic dehisense is a serious complication of anterior resections. We have had success in our centre utilising Endosponge therapy to salvage anastomotic leaks but this requiresmultiple endoscopic sessions and can take around 6 weeks to heal in some cases. This can delay further management such as chemotherapy. Aim We describe the novel use of Padlock over the scope clips to manage patients with anastomotic dehisense post anterior resection. Method Padlock over the scope clips were used to manage three patients who presented with anastomotic breakdown post laparoscopic anterior resection between February 2016 and July 2017. Results These patients were initially managed conservatively with IV antibiotics and fluids. One case was first managed with Endosponge treatment before a Padlock clip was utilised to bridge a narrow defect. The other cases were managed initially with CT-guided percutaneous drains before clip deployment. Patients were followed up with regular clinic and sigmoidoscopies. All three cases demonstrated anastomotic salvage and satisfactory healing. This allowed the patients to be fit for their chemotherapy in less than 4 weeks from presentation. There were no complications from utilising the Padlock clips in these cases. Conclusion Utilising over the scope endoclips previously has been thought to be limited by the size of defect. Our experience details novel combination techniques that allow for quick resolution and the expeditious commencement of further management such as chemotherapy. These clips also proved to be costeffective in our centre, utilising less inpatient and outpatient resources than alternative management plans.