Background: There is controversy in the use of vacuum assisted closure therapy (VAC) in management of enterocutaneous fistula (ECF). Due to the increased risk of new fistula formation, its use was contraindicated, but then several studies reported successful closure, fistula effluent control and healing of excoriated skin by keeping it dry.
Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of VAC in treatment of the complex postoperative ECF.
Patient and Methods: Patients with postoperative ECF were enrolled in this prospective study in the period from January 2018 to June 2019. Full history, examination and investigations were done for all patients. Patients had VAC. After one month, responses to VAC in terms of time from fistula to VAC, general condition, fistula output, fistula closure, wound size, skin condition, time to start oral feeding, need to segregate, complications and mortality were recorded. On follow-up, time to complete closure, type of closure and cost were recorded. Results were then analyzed.
Results: 60 patients with ECF were enrolled. General condition was improved in 32 patients while ECF output was improved in 52 patients. Early start of Oral feeding had occurred with the use of VAC. Complications as pain, new fistula formation, pulmonary embolism or ongoing sepsis occurred in 40 patients while mortality occurred in 12 patients.
Conclusion: VAC is feasible in complex postoperative enterocutaneous fistulae. It enhances the survival, improves the general condition and the perifistular skin and reduces the fistula output and wound size.