Endoscopic closure of an iatrogenic rupture of upper esophagus (Lannier’s triangle) with the use of endoclips – case report and review of the literature

We present a case report regarding a 74-year-old male with iatrogenic esophageal perforation, after an attempt to remove a food bolus impaction at Lannier’s triangle (proximal esophagus). The perforation was treated endoscopically (flexible EGD) by clip application in two sessions, with excellent outcome. Esophageal perforations occur rarely, usually following a medical procedure. The clinical manifestations are often insidious with potentially catastrophic complications. Although the majority of cases have been treated conservatively and/or operatively over the years, there is a rising tendency for non-operative endoscopic interventions due to the high morbidity and mortality rates seen even in specialized units. For this reason self-expandable stents, endoclips, tissue sealants and suturing devices have been used. A high degree of clinical suspicion is essential for successful management of esophageal perforations, as is early decision to intervene and respect for basic surgical principles such as prevention and limitation of extraesophageal contamination, prevention of reflux of gastric contents and restoration of gastrointestinal tract integrity. The published reports on the use of endoclips for repairing perforations of the proximal esophagus are rare. To our knowledge, this is the first case report regarding the endoscopic application of endoclips for the successful closure of an iatrogenic perforation at Lannier’s triangle.