Feasibility study of secure closure of gastric fundus perforation using over-the-scope clips in a dog model.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Gastric fundus perforation is a serious complication of endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection performed for the removal of early gastric cancers or subepithelial tumors. The novel over-the-scope clip (OTSC) has recently been found to be effective for closing gastrointestinal-tract perforations and accesses for natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery. However, feasibility studies of OTSCs in gastric fundus perforation are still lacking. The aim of this study was therefore to demonstrate the feasibility of endoscopic closure of gastric fundus perforation using the OTSC system in a dog model.

METHODS: Gastric fundus perforations were created by needle-knife electrocautery in seven dogs. The perforations were then closed using the OTSC clipping system. Stomach distension was maintained by maximum insufflation with air and methylene blue solution (500 mL) was instilled to submerge the closed perforation. Leaks were detected laparoscopically.

RESULTS: Perforations were closed in all seven cases with a mean time of 18.5 ± 6.4 min (11-28 min). Twin Grasper assistance failed to release the OTSCs in two of the seven cases (2/7, 28.6%) because of difficulties associated with the J-maneuver (retroflexion of endoscope) required for the gastric fundus procedure, and OTCS were forced into place by suction. Minor leakage was observed in one case (1/7, 14.3%). No damages related to the clip system were found during postmortem examinations.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite difficulties associated with the J-maneuver of the endoscope, this small series demonstrated that sufficient closure of gastric fundus perforation could be achieved using the OTSC system.