The use of magnets in endoscopy has been described for more than 20 years [1]. Magnetic compression anastomosis has been described in experimental animal models as well in clinical use [2]. Chopita and colleagues demonstrated the results of magnetic endoscopic gastroenteric anastomosis in humans with a success rate of 86.6 % [3]. Other authors have used magnets to treat refractory strictures of the esophagus and total stenosis of the biliary tract [4]. Trials with compression anastomosis involving the rectum have already been reported in swine models. A few cases have also been described [5].
We report a case of a 57-year-old man with familial adenomatous polyposis and three focuses of colonic adenocarcinoma who underwent total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis reconstruction 2 years ago. In the postoperative period, a protective ileostomy was performed owing to the occurrence of anastomosis dehiscence. A few days later, laparotomy was performed with closure of the rectal and ileal stumps and preserving the ileostomy. After 18 months, reconstruction of the intestinal tract was performed, with latero-terminal ileorectal anastomosis, using a 25-mm endoluminal stapler. The procedure was completed with difficulty considering the intense pelvic fibrosis that had developed from the previous procedures that were selected for ileostomy maintenance. Three months later, during control retroscopy to schedule ileostomy closure, complete anastomosis stenosis was observed ([Fig. 1]). A simultaneous endoscopic examination of the rectal stump and the distal ileum was done, under radioscopic vision, demonstrating a space smaller than 1 cm between the two segments ([Fig. 2]). Endoscopic treatment with magnetic compression anastomosis was proposed ([Fig. 3], [Fig. 4]) and successfully completed ([Video 1]), with the creation of a new and wide ileorectal anastomosis ([Fig. 5]) that allowed the ileostomy closure 8 days later. A control endoscopic exam done 15 days, 1 month, and 2 years later demonstrated patent anastomosis.
Fig. 1 Endoscopic view of complete anastomosis stenosis.
Fig. 2 A simultaneous endoscopic examination of the rectal stump and the distal ileum, under radioscopic vision, demonstrating a space smaller than 1 cm.
Fig. 3 Illustration showing: a completely stenosed rectal anastomosis; b endoscopic introduction of the magnets in ideal and rectal side; c the magnets in place. Source: Angela Giseli de Souza.
Fig. 4 The magnet in a rectal stump.
Video 1 Endoscopic treatment of a total ileorectal anastomosis stenosis using magnets. Source for graphical illustration: Angela Giseli de Souza.
Fig. 5 The final appearance of the new lumen of the anastomosis.
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