The efficacy of the over-the-scope clip (OTSC; Ovesco, Tübingen, Germany) to achieve
primary hemostasis and prevent rebleeding has been demonstrated in the treatment of
gastroduodenal ulcers [1]. Recent data have shown technical success and hemostasis rates of almost 100 % [1]
[2]
[3]. We present the case of technical failure of an OTSC used for a rebleeding duodenal
ulcer, leading to massive bleeding when the
clip was released ([Video 1]).
Video 1 The over-the-scope clip damaged the duodenal ulcer base, resulting in massive bleeding
from the artery branch.
A 61-year-old man was admitted for hematemesis, anemia, and hypotension. A Forrest
IIb ulcer located on the posterior wall of the duodenal bulb was treated by adrenaline
and hot biopsy coagulation. He was readmitted a week later for a severe recurrence
with hemorrhagic shock. Second gastroscopy confirmed rebleeding from the initial duodenal
ulcer graded Forrest IIa, and hemostasis was achieved with hot biopsy forceps coagulation
([Fig. 1 a, b]). We decided to prevent a new recurrence by applying an OTSC. Unfortunately, release
of the OTSC damaged the ulcer base leading to a large defect on the arterial branch
and resulting in acute hemorrhagic shock ([Fig. 1 c, d], [Fig. 2 a]). Endoscopic hemostasis appeared impossible and we transferred the patient as an
emergency to the radiology unit.
Fig. 1 Endoscopic management of the duodenal ulcer. a Initial aspect with visible vessel (Forrest IIa), then rapid bleeding with arterial
pulse (Forrest Ia). b Initial hemostasis was achieved with hot biopsy forceps coagulation. c Placement of the over-the-scope clip (OTSC; Ovesco, Tübingen, Germany) to prevent
recurrence. d Release of the OTSC led to massive acute bleeding.
Fig. 2 Emergency radiologic management. a The massive bleed despite the over-the-scope clip (OTSC; Ovesco, Tübingen, Germany)
being in place. b Computed tomography scan with contrast showing an 8-mm blush (red arrows) on the
gastroduodenal artery and migration of the OTSC clip (blue arrow). c An arteriography was performed and confirmed the massive blush. d Embolization of the two main feeding vessels was performed.
A computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed a large arterial blush of 8 mm in diameter
([Fig. 2 b, c]). Arterial embolization of the gastroduodenal and pancreaticoduodenal arterial ramifications
was performed successfully ([Fig. 2 d]).
Five days later, the patient suffered from melena with hemodynamic instability. CT
scan concluded rebleeding from the gastroduodenal artery that had undergone embolization.
Fortunately, a successful surgical treatment was finally performed, which controlled
the bleeding.
This case highlights the fact that OTSCs may sometimes dramatically worsen bleeding
by ripping out the base of an ulcer and the bleeding vessel. Release of the OTSC may
be more challenging in posterior wall and fibrous duodenal ulcers, as previously published
[2]. Rescue OTSC placement should be performed in units equipped with interventional
radiologists with experience in embolization for cases of massive bleeding.
Endoscopy_UCTN_Code_TTT_1AO_2AD
Endoscopy E-Videos is a free access online section, reporting on interesting cases and new techniques
in gastroenterological endoscopy. All papers include a high
quality video and all contributions are
freely accessible online.
This section has its own submission
website at
https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/e-videos
