Experience of Endoscopic Jejunojejunostomy for Anastomotic Obstruction After Subtotal Gastrectomy Using Magnetic Compression Anastomosis

Magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) was developed as a low-invasive treatment for gastro-enteric or entero-enteric obstruction. A 72-year-old man underwent subtotal gastrectomy with Billroth II reconstruction for early gastric cancer. After the operation, he suffered from repeated aspiration pneumonia due to anastomotic obstruction caused by jejunal kinking at the efferent loop of anastomosis. We therefore performed jejunojejunostomy via the MCA technique, as his situation was not improved despite conservative therapy and he had a high reoperative risk. We prepared two flat plate-shaped neodymium magnets (15 × 3 mm) each with a small hole, and a nylon thread was passed through each hole. Each magnet was then delivered endoscopically to the anal side of the jejunal kinking, subsequently to the anastomosis, using biopsy forceps. The two magnets immediately became attracted towards each other transmurally. Oozing hemorrhage with clot at the mated magnets was observed 10 days after starting the compression. After retrieving the magnets, we confirmed the completion of jejunojejunostomy and then successfully achieved hemostasis of the anastomotic hemorrhage using argon plasma coagulation. The widely patent anastomosis was confirmed endoscopically 1 month after canalization; and he has been asymptomatic and able to eat a normal diet ever since. Endoscopic MCA is an effective, low-invasive treatment for anastomotic obstruction after subtotal gastrectomy. A standardized, safer procedure should be established for general use in the clinical setting.