MODERN MINIMALLY INVASIVE AND ENDOSCOPIC TECHNOLOGIES IN THE TREATMENT OF GASTROINTESTINAL ANASTOMOTIC LEAKS: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Abstract
Gastrointestinal anastomotic leak remains one of the most severe complications in abdominal surgery, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In recent years, minimally invasive and endoscopic treatment modalities have rapidly evolved, aiming to reduce surgical trauma and improve clinical outcomes. The aim of this literature review is to analyze current evidence (2023–2025) on the use of endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT), the Over-The-Scope Clip (OTSC) system, endoscopic stenting, and their combined approaches in the management of gastrointestinal anastomotic leaks. Indications, technical aspects, efficacy, advantages, and limitations of these technologies are discussed. Special attention is given to the lack of standardized clinical protocols and the need for further randomized controlled trials. Modern minimally invasive and endoscopic approaches demonstrate high effectiveness and safety; however, their broader implementation requires standardization and integration into clinical guidelines.