Over-the-scope-clips, initially designed for hemostatis of gastrointestinal bleeding, may be the least invasive method to close chronic small fistulas, according to a study in the April 7, 2010, issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology.
GI chronic perforations require closure and control of extraluminal collections and sepsis, according to the release. Covered self-expandable metal stents or plastic stents are an effective method in more than 80 percent of cases, but have many drawbacks.
The study from a research team in Italy reported the first successful closure of two gastro-cutaneous fistulas, according to the release.
Read the release on over-the-scope-clips.