Vacuum assisted closure in coloproctology

Vacuum-assisted closure has earned its indications in coloproctology. It has been described with variable results in the treatment of large perineal defects after abdominoperineal excision, in the treatment of stoma dehiscence and perirectal abscesses. The most promising indication for vacuum-assisted closure is probably the treatment of para-anastomotic presacral abscesses following anastomotic leakage after total mesorectal excision. Early initiation of vacuum-assisted closure has the potential to prevent debilitating persistent presacral sinuses precluding stoma closure and bad function of the neorectum. Prompt initiation of endosponge treatment is advised after the anastomotic leakage with the purulent cavity is diagnosed. The endosponge is inserted transanally and connected with a low vacuum bottle. With the gradual reduction in the cavity, the endosponge is reduced in size every 3–4 days when the endosponge is exchanged. It takes 3–6 weeks to close the cavity. Future studies should focus on the stoma closure rate and function to assess whether this intensive postoperative treatment of anastomotic leakages is justified.