New endoscopic closure technique, “internal traction–assisted suspended closure,” for GI defect closure: a pilot study (with video)

Background and Aims

After endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR), reliable closure of the perforation is critical. However, it is technically difficult to close some defects by using metal clips alone or by purse-string suturing, which may lead to unreliable closure. Inspired by the process of pulling up the 2 ends of the incision in the surgical suture, we developed a new endoscopic closure technique, the "internal traction–assisted suspended closure" technique. This pilot study was performed as an initial evaluation of the feasibility and safety of this new endoscopic closure technique.

Methods

Data from patients in whom this suspended closure technique was used to close full-thickness defects after EFTR were retrospectively reviewed. The primary outcome was successful closure rate. Secondary outcomes were closure time, length of postprocedural hospital stay, and incidence of postprocedural adverse events. Defect size and tumor characteristics were also analyzed.

Results

Eight patients who underwent the suspended closure technique after EFTR were included. All patients were successfully treated with the suspended closure technique, and no patient developed serious adverse events. The median length of the defect was 3.25 cm (range, 2.5-9.0) and the median width was 2.8 cm (range, 1.8-6.0). The median closing time was 13 minutes (range, 6-24).

Conclusions

The internal traction–assisted suspended closure technique is a simple, reliable, and easy-to-use technique for large full-thickness defects after endoscopic resection.