Experience in the treatment of esophageal anastomosis dehiscence using a self-expanding metallic prosthesis

Abstract

Esophageal anastomosis dehiscence is a serious complication after esophageal cancer surgery and is associated with high mortality. The risk of esophageal anastomosis leakage is approximately 4 to 30%, with a mortality rate of 35 to 70%. Surgery used to be considered the mainstay for treatment. In recent years, the use of self-expandable prostheses for endoscopic management has been developed as an alternative to surgery, in an attempt to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with surgery.