Modified Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Using Surgical Drain and Occlusive Sutures for Leakage After Esophageal Injury

Oesophageal leakage is a serious complication that can lead to infection, sepsis, malnutrition, and death. Negative Pressure Wound Therapy has been increasingly used to treat oesophageal leaks; however, in cases of cervical oesophageal leakage, deep tract and anatomical complexity often hinder an airtight seal and limit transmission of negative pressure. We developed a modified Negative Pressure Wound Therapy technique by connecting a surgical drain to the base of the foam dressing and securing it with subcutaneous occlusive sutures to ensure a reliable seal and effective negative pressure transmission. Four cases of modified application were included in this study. All leaks were controlled without complications attributable to the procedure. The modified Negative Pressure Wound Therapy technique effectively addresses the limitations of conventional methods in complex anatomical regions. By ensuring a reliable occlusive seal and enhancing negative pressure transmission, this approach promotes optimal wound healing through improved exudate clearance and reduced maceration.