ThP6.9 - Endoluminal vacuum-assisted closure (EndoVAC) therapy in spontaneous duodenal perforation: a novel approach to an undertreated problem

Abstract Introduction Duodenal perforation is a rare but critical condition, with management ranging from conservative to surgical depending on timing of presentation, patient status, and clinician preference. In recent years, minimally invasive techniques have been emerging alternatives for their safety and efficacy. Notably, there have been cases promoting endoluminal vacuum-assisted closure (EndoVAC) therapy as a viable alternative for use among patients with iatrogenic oesophageal perforations. To our knowledge, there has been no reported use of this novel approach specifically in spontaneous duodenal perforations. Case presentation A 55-year-old female with no history of trauma, surgery, NSAID use, or gastrointestinal conditions presented with epigastric pain and vomiting. A CT scan revealed a contained duodenal perforation at the D2/3 junction, accompanied by a complex retroperitoneal collection unsuitable for imaging-guided drainage. Initial management was conservative with intravenous hydration, antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, and nasogastric tube decompression. She underwent oesophagoduodenoscopy and EndoVAC therapy resulting in complete resolution of collection and a small diverticulum on repeat CT. Discussion Current standard of care for duodenal perforations would be conservative management, though this carries the risk of deterioration due to biliopancreatic leakage and slow resolution of sepsis. Surgical management, when needed, is often technically challenging with high morbidity. EndoVAC gives the benefit of providing targeted drainage and negative pressure therapy to the site of perforation, reducing ongoing contamination, and promoting wound granulation. Conclusion EndoVAC therapy offers a minimally invasive alternative to treatment of duodenal perforations and has the potential for broader application in specialist and tertiary healthcare settings.