Treatment of oesophageal perforations and its complications (Mediastinitis, abscess) with covered metal stent and drainage

Introduction: The covered metal stents were first used for malignant oesophageal stenosis. Since 2007 we have used it 15 times for treatment of oesophageal perforations and post-operative leaks. Methods and patients: When the perforation or leakage was recognised the decision on the ways of therapy was done after consultation with an oesophageal surgeon. The optimal size of retrievable covered metal stent was calculated individually. The stenting was supplemented in most cases with drainage, and with antibiotic treatment in an intensive care unit. The timing of stent removal (in most cases 6 – 10 weeks) was afte…