Use of sponge-assisted endoluminal vacuum therapy for the treatment of colorectal anastomotic leaks: expert panel consensus

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leaks represent one of the most significant complications of colorectal surgery and are the primary cause of postoperative mortality and morbidity. Sponge-assisted endoluminal vacuum therapy (EVT) has emerged as a minimally invasive technique for the management of anastomotic leaks; however, there are questions regarding patient selection due to the heterogeneous nature of anastomotic leaks and the application of sponge-assisted EVT by surgeons. METHOD: Seven colorectal surgical experts participated in a modified nominal group technique to establish consensus regarding key questions that arose from existing gaps in scientific evidence and the variability in clinical practice. After a bibliographic search to identify the available evidence and sequential meetings with participants, a series of recommendations and statements were formulated and agreed upon. RESULTS: Thirty-seven recommendations and statements on the optimal use of sponge-assisted EVT were elaborated on and unanimously agreed upon by the group of experts. The statements and recommendations answer 10 key questions about the indications, benefits, and definition of the success rate of sponge-assisted EVT for the management of anastomotic leaks. CONCLUSION: Although further research is needed to resolve clinical and technical issues associated with sponge-assisted EVT, the recommendations and statements produced from this project summarize critical aspects to consider when using sponge-assisted EVT and to assist those involved in the management of patients with colorectal anastomotic leaks.