Full covered self-expandable metal stents for the treatment of anastomotic leak using a silk thread

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of fixation of the fully covered self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement using a silk thread for complete closure of an anastomotic leak. An anastomotic leak is a life-threatening complication after gastrectomy. Although the traditional treatment of choice was surgical re-intervention, an endoscopic SEMS can be used alternatively.During the study period, we retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients who received a modified covered SEMS capable of being fixed using a silk thread (Shim technique) due to an anastomotic leak after gastrectomy to prevent stent migration. Demographic data, stent placement and removal, clinical success, time to resolution, and complications were evaluated.A total of 7 patients underwent fully covered SEMS with a silk thread placement for an anastomotic leak after gastrectomy to treat gastric cancer. The patients' mean age was 71.3 ± 8.0 years. Man sex was predominant (85.7%). All patients' American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) scores were between I and III. Total gastrectomy was performed in 5 patients (71.4%) and proximal gastrectomy was performed in 2 patients (28.6%). The time between gastrectomy and stent insertion was 22.3 ± 11.1 days. The size of the leaks was 27.1 ± 11.1 mm. Technical success and complete leak closure were achieved in all patients. Stent migration was absent. All stents were removed between 4 and 6 weeks. Delayed esophageal stricture was found in 1 patient (14.2) and successfully resolved after endoscopic balloon dilation.For an anastomotic leak after gastrectomy, fully covered SEMS placement with a silk thread is an effective and safe treatment option without stent migration. The stent extraction time between 4 and 6 weeks was optimal without severe complications.