Unusual techniques in the management of enteroatmospheric fistula. Report of a case

INTRODUCTION: Enteroatmospheric fistula (EAF) is one of the most challenging postoperative complications following gastrointestinal surgery. Different techniques have been reported for managing the open abdomen and controlling the effluent released from an EAF. PRESENTATION OF A CASE: We herein report the case of a patient who underwent bowel resection, complicated by the failure of the staple line, in the setting of an open abdomen. A male external catheter was anastomosed to the EAF opening to control the effluent and divert it away from the wound. In addition, Teflon pledgets were used to successfully patch a second, small EAF opening. DISCUSSION: An essential element in managing EAFs is wound care and controlling the effluent from the EAF to protect the wound. Different innovative techniques have been described to manage an EAF in the setting of an open abdomen. Anastomosing the male external catheter to the EAF opening is a simple and quick technique to control the EAF effluent. Other techniques can be applied at the same time to manage the wound. CONCLUSION: EAF is a very challenging complication. We presented a simple and effective technique to control the EAF effluent. Multidisciplinary teams are required to manage these patients successfully.