Magnetic Compression Anastomosis Research Articles

Endoscopic application of magnetic compression anastomosis: a review.

Magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) is a new method that provides sutureless passage construction for tubular organs. Due to the high recurrence rate of conventional endoscopic treatment and the high morbidity and mortality of surgical procedures, the MCA technique shows promise. The aim of this review is to comprehensively examine the literature related to the use of MCA in different gastrointestinal diseases over the past few years, categorizing them according to the anastomotic site and describing in detail the various methods of magnet delivery and the clinical outcomes of MCA. MCA is an innovative technique, and its use represents an advancement in the field of minimally invasive interventions. Comparison studies have shown that the anastomosis formed by MCA is comparable to or better than surgical sutures in terms of general appearance and histology. Although most of the current research has involved animal studies or studies with small populations, the safety and feasibility of MCA have been preliminarily demonstrated. Large prospective studies involving populations are still needed to guarantee the security of MCA. For technologies that have been initially used in clinical settings, effective measures should also be implemented to identify, even prevent, complications. Furthermore, specific commercial magnets must be created and optimized in this emerging area.

Effect of tissue tension on magnetic compression anastomosis of digestive tract

With the increasing application of magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) in gastrointestinal anastomosis, we identified an interesting phenomenon that an anastomosis is more prone to stenosis after endoscopic gastrointestinal MCA. We hypothesized that the increase in tissue tension during endoscopic procedures is the cause of anastomotic stenosis. In this study, we investigated the effect of tissue tension on gastroduodenal bypass MCA in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. Twenty SD rats were divided into the study group (high-tension group, n = 10) and control group (no tension group, n = 10), wherein the rats underwent complete gastroduodenal bypass magnetic anastomosis under high tension and no tension of the digestive tract, respectively. Anastomotic specimens were obtained 4 weeks after the operation, and anastomotic diameters of the two groups were observed and measured. The histological difference was observed by hematoxylin & eosin and Masson staining. The operation was successfully completed in all rats, and all survived until 4 weeks postoperatively. Anastomotic measurements revealed that the anastomosis diameter was significantly smaller in the study group than in the control group, and there were three cases of severe anastomotic stenosis. Histological observation showed that the amount of collagen fibers in the anastomosis was greater in the study group than in the control group. The results suggest that the high-tension state of the digestive tract is an important factor leading to anastomotic stenosis, and thus, we put forward the Yan-Zhang’s Tissue Tension Theory of MCA to explain this phenomenon.

Magnetic compression anastomosis for treatment of malignant complete esophageal stricture (with video)

Magnetic compression anastomosis for treatment of malignant complete esophageal stricture (with video)

Primary repair of esophageal atresia Gross type C via thoracoscopic magnetic compression anastomosis: Is it the best option?

Magnetic compression anastomosis is a promising treatment option for patients with complex esophageal atresia; but, at the present time, should not be the first therapeutic option in those cases where the surgeon can perform a primary anastomosis of the two ends of the esophagus with acceptable tension.

Feasibility experiment of a novel deformable self-assembled magnetic anastomosis ring (DSAMAR) for gastrointestinal anastomosis through a natural orifice

Although the application of magnetic compression anastomosis is becoming increasingly widespread, the magnets used in earlier studies were mostly in the shape of a whole ring. Hence, a deformable self-assembled magnetic anastomosis ring (DSAMAR) was designed in this study for gastrointestinal anastomosis. Furthermore, its feasibility was studied using a beagle model. The designed DSAMAR comprised 10 trapezoidal magnetic units. Twelve beagles were used as animal models, and DSAMARs were inserted into the stomach and colon through the mouth and anus, respectively, via endoscopy to achieve gastrocolic magnamosis. Surgical time, number of failed deformations, survival rate of the animals, and the time of magnet discharge were documented. A month later, specimens of the anastomosis were obtained and observed with the naked eye as well as microscopically. In the gastrocolic anastomosis of the 12 beagles, the procedure took 65–120 min. Although a deformation failure occurred during the operation in one of the beagles, it was successful after repositioning. The anastomosis was formed after the magnet fell off 12–18 days after the operation. Naked eye and microscopic observations revealed that the anastomotic specimens obtained 1 month later were well-formed, smooth, and flat. DSAMAR is thus feasible for gastrointestinal anastomosis under full endoscopy via the natural orifice.

Magnetic compression anastomosis gastrojejunostomy: feasibility and efficacy of a novel device in a swine model

BackgroundMeans of addressing technical challenges in forming gastrojejunostomy (GJ) anastomoses and maintaining their patency are sought. ObjectivesEvaluation of preclinical feasibility and healing efficacy of a novel linear magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) device to form a patent GJ versus sutured jejunal enterotomy (JE) sites in swine. SettingSingle-center veterinary testing facility. MethodsFeasibility of 3 prototype sizes (4, 6, and 8 cm) of a metal MCA device (MCAD) to form a patent GJ was evaluated over 6 weeks. A distal magnet was laparoscopically inserted in the jejunum, a proximal magnet was placed gastroscopically in the stomach; magnets were aligned to gradually form an anastomosis, self-detached, and be expelled. At necropsy, MCAs were assessed for patency and compared with JE tissues to evaluate wound healing. ResultsMCADs aligned at the GJ location without complications. In 5/6 MCAD pairs, dislodgement occurred between 7 and 26 days; expulsion 13–31 days; 1 MCAD pair was retained in the stomach. At necropsy, all pigs were healthy, gaining a mean 15.0 kg. Anastomoses were not adequately patent in 2/4 pigs receiving the 4-cm or 6-cm MCADs because their linear length was too small. But, anastomoses of both pigs receiving the 8-cm MCADs maintained full patency. Minimal inflammation and fibrosis were seen in MCA specimens versus sutured enterotomies. ConclusionsA novel linear MCA device was feasible and effectively created a patent GJ anastomosis in swine with minimal inflammation and fibrosis. The MCAD may be appropriate for clinical evaluation.

Magnetic compression anastomosis for the treatment of complete biliary obstruction after cholecystectomy

Background & AimsPost-cholecystectomy biliary strictures can be treated surgically or non-surgically. Although endoscopic or percutaneous treatments are the preferred approaches, these methods are not feasible in cases where complete stricture occlusion prevents the successful passage of a guidewire. The utility of magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) in patients with post-cholecystectomy complete biliary obstruction that cannot be treated conventionally was evaluated. MethodsMCA was performed in 10 patients with post-cholecystectomy biliary strictures that did not resolve with conventional endoscopic or percutaneous treatment. One magnet was delivered through the percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage tract, and another was advanced via endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) of the common bile duct. After magnet approximation and recanalization, a fully covered self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) was placed for 3 months and then replaced for a further 3 months. Stricture resolution was evaluated after FCSEMS removal. ResultsAmong the 10 patients who underwent MCA for post-cholecystectomy biliary stricture, the biliary injury was Strasberg type B in 2, type C in 3, and type E in 5. Recanalization was successful in all patients (technical success rate 100%). The mean follow-up period after recanalization was 50.2 months (range 13.2–116.8 months). Partial restenosis after MCA occurred in two patients at 24.1 and 1.6 months after stent removal. ERCP with FCSEMS placement resolved the recurrent stenosis in both patients. ConclusionsMCA is a useful alternative nonsurgical treatment for complete biliary obstruction after cholecystectomy that cannot be resolved by conventional methods.

Influence of different magnetic forces on the effect of colonic anastomosis in rats.

Despite much work having been conducted on magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) in the digestive tract, there are no reports on the influence of magnetic force on the anastomosis. To investigate the effect of different magnetic force magnets on the MCA of the digestive tract. Two groups of magnets of the same sizes but different magnetic forces were designed and produced. A total of 24 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into two groups (powerful magnet group and common magnet group), with 12 rats in each group. Two types of magnets were used to complete the colonic side-to-side anastomosis of the rats. The operation time and magnet discharge time were recorded. The anastomotic specimens were obtained 4 wk after the operation and then the burst pressure and diameter of the anastomosis were measured, and the anastomosis was observed via the naked eye and subjected to histological examination. The magnetic forces of the powerful and common magnet groups at zero distance were 8.26 N and 4.10 N, respectively. The colonic side-to-side anastomosis was completed in all 24 rats, and the operation success rate and postoperative survival rate were 100%. No significant difference was noted in the operation time between the two groups. The magnet discharge time of the powerful magnet group was slightly longer than that of the common magnet group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.513). Furthermore, there was no statistical difference in the burst pressure (P = 0.266) or diameter of magnetic anastomosis (P = 0.095) between the two groups. The gross specimens of the two groups showed good anastomotic healing, and histological observation indicated good mucosal continuity without differences on healing. In the rat colonic side-to-side MCA model, both the powerful magnet with 8.26 N and the common magnet with 4.10 N showed no significant impact on the anastomosis establishment process or its effect.

Treatment of refractory esophageal stenosis after endoscopic submucosal dissection with magnetic compression anastomosis.

Treatment of refractory esophageal stenosis after endoscopic submucosal dissection with magnetic compression anastomosis.

Sleeve gastrectomy with duodenoileal bipartition using linear magnets: feasibility and safety at 1-year follow-up

BackgroundSingle-anastomosis metabolic/bariatric surgery procedures may lessen the incidence of anastomotic complications. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of performing side-to-side duodenoileal (DI) bipartition using magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA). In addition, preliminary efficacy, quality of life (QoL), and distribution of food through the DI bipartition were evaluated. MethodsPatients with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥35.0 to 50.0 kg/m2 underwent side-to-side DI bipartition with the magnet anastomosis system (MS) with sleeve gastrectomy (SG). By endoscopic positioning, a distal magnet (250 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve) and a proximal magnet (first part of the duodenum) were aligned with laparoscopic assistance to inaugurate MCA. An isotopic study assessed transit through the bipartition. ResultsBetween March 14, 2022 to June 1, 2022, 10 patients (BMI of 44.2 ± 1.3 kg/m2) underwent side-to-side MS DI. In 9 of 10 patients, an SG was performed concurrently. The median operative time was 161.0 minutes (IQR, 108.0-236.0), and the median hospital stay was 3 days (IQR, 2-40). Paired magnets were expelled at a median of 43 days (IQR, 21-87). There was no device-related serious advanced event within 1 year. All anastomoses were patent with satisfactory diameters after magnet expulsion and at 1 year. Respective BMI, BMI reduction, and total weight loss were 28.9 ± 1.8 kg/m2, 15.2 ± 1.8 kg/m2, and 34.2% ± 4.1%, respectively. Of note, 70.0% of patients reported that they were very satisfied. The isotopic study found a median of 19.0% of the meal transited through the ileal loop. ConclusionSide-to-side MCA DI bipartition with SG in adults with class II to III obesity was feasible, safe, and efficient with good QoL at 1-year follow-up. Moreover, 19% of ingested food passed directly into the ileum.

Application of Y-Z deformable magnetic ring for recanalization of transanal single-access rectal stricture.

Magnetic compression anastomosis has been reported to have remarkable clinical outcomes. Here, we tested the applicability of a Y-Z deformable magnetic ring (DMR) for non-surgical manipulation of rectal stenosis (RS) in a beagle dog model under a transanal single-access condition. RS was modeled in 8 beagle dogs using partial ligation with silk thread. Under X-ray guidance, the Y-Z DMR was positioned at the proximal and distal ends of the RS, and the magnetic ring was bent into an "O" shape, such that the two rings were magnetically attracted. Operation time, complications during or after operation, and discharge time of the magnetic rings were recorded. The anastomosis bursting pressure was measured two weeks after removing the rings, and its formation was assessed through gross and histological examination. Partial ligation with a silk thread successfully established the canine RS model. After Y-Z DMR installation, the magnetic ring was successfully reconfigured from an "S" to an "O" shape. Strong attraction existed between the rings. The operation time was 9-15min (average: 11.75 ± 1.98min). No rectal bleeding or perforation occurred during or after operation. The ring was naturally expelled 7-10days after surgery. A pressure of > 300mmHg was recorded at the point of anastomosis rupture. The rectal anastomosis appeared to have healed properly on the surface, which was confirmed histologically, signifying the success of this procedure. A Y-Z DMR facilitated the successful recanalization of transanal single-channel RS without needing surgery in an animal model.

Magnetic Compression Anastomosis for Esophageal Obstruction: Indications, Contraindications, Methodologies, and Technique Strategies

Background and AimsThere are several limitations to the application of conventional endoscopic therapy for refractory esophageal stenosis and even atresia, and the secondary option of surgery involving reanastomosis also has drawbacks. Magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) is a novel technique that relies on magnetic attraction for recanalization and the repair of esophageal obstruction. We evaluate and discuss the clinical value and implementation strategies of the MCA technique as a promising countermeasure for esophageal obstruction. MethodsIn this study, we retrospectively enrolled 7 patients with esophageal stenosis or atresia who underwent MCA from December 2015 to June 2023. Gastroscopic combined with laparoscopic-assisted gastroesophageal MCA and jejunostomy were performed for patient 1; laparotomy and gastroscopic-assisted MCA and jejunostomy were performed for patient 2; laparoscopic gastrostomy combined with endoscopic-assisted MCA was performed for patients 3 and 4; thoracotomy combined with MCA and gastrostomy were performed for patient 5; and endoscopic-assisted MCA was performed for patients 6 and 7. ResultsAnastomosis and recanalization were successfully performed for all patients. A total of 42.86% (3/7) of the patients underwent subsequent conventional endoscopic treatment, including balloon dilatation and stent implantation. The incidences of postoperative pulmonary infection and anastomotic leakage were both 14.29% (1/7), and no other adverse events occurred. The magnetic complexes were removed at a median of postoperative day 18. All patients resumed oral feeding. ConclusionMCA appears to be a safe and effective therapy for the management of severe esophageal stenosis, refractory stenosis, and atresia of different etiologies, locations, lengths, and patterns, with the advantages of less trauma, high safety, and effectiveness. When making the operative proposal, diverse and individualized magnetic compression devices and methods should be flexibly adopted according to the patient's individual characteristics, history, obstruction distance, and obstruction patterns.

Magnetic Compression Anastomosis of Benign Short-Segment Ureteral Obstruction

PurposeTo investigate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of magnetic compression anastomosis of benign short-segment ureteral obstruction. Materials and MethodsPatients referred for failure of ureteral double-J stent placement because of impassable benign ureteral obstruction were included. Eleven patients (11 ureters) with a mean age of 57.5 years (range, 19–85 years; 8 women) underwent ureteral magnetic compression anastomosis. All patients had indwelling nephrostomy catheters. In all patients, anterograde and retrograde ureteral stent placements were unsuccessful using either interventional or cystoscopic access. Ureteral magnetic compression anastomosis was performed as a 2-step procedure. In the first step, magnets were placed. In the second step, the stricture was traversed via magnetic compression anastomosis. Successful establishment of anastomosis and ureteral double-J stent placement were considered technical success. The mean time for complete magnetic adherence and fluoroscopy time for each procedure were recorded. ResultsFive patients (45%) had an ileal conduit. The technical success rate was 91% (n = 10/11). The mean time for magnetic adherence was 5.7 days (SD ± 1.3). The mean single-rotation fluoroscopy times during the first and second steps of the procedure were 9.45 minutes (SD ± 2.09) and 15.70 minutes (SD ± 2.62), respectively. Magnets were removed with the support of either balloon catheters (n = 9) or biopsy forceps (n = 2). No procedure-related adverse events occurred. ConclusionsMagnetic compression anastomosis of benign ureteral obstruction is feasible and safe and can be performed in an interventional radiology (IR) suite without the need for endoscopy.

Side-to-side magnetic duodeno-ileostomy in adults with severe obesity with or without type 2 diabetes: early outcomes with prior or concurrent sleeve gastrectomy

BackgroundConventional metabolic/bariatric surgical anastomoses with sutures/staples may cause severe adverse events (AEs). ObjectivesThe study aim was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of primary and revisional side-to-side duodeno-ileostomy (DI) bipartition using a novel magnetic compression anastomosis device (Magnet Anastomosis System [MS]). SettingMulticenter: private practices and university hospitals. MethodsIn patients with body mass index ([BMI, kg/m2] ≥35.0 to ≤50.0 with/without type 2 diabetes [T2D] glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA1C > 6.5 %]), two linear MS magnets were delivered endoscopically to the duodenum and ileum with laparoscopic assistance and aligned, initiating magnet fusion and gradual DI (MagDI). The MagDI-after-SG group had undergone prior sleeve gastrectomy (SG); the MagDI + SG group underwent concurrent SG. AEs were graded by Clavien-Dindo Classification (CDC). ResultsBetween November 22, 2021 and May 30, 2023, 43 patients (88.0% female, mean age 43.7 ± 1.3 years) underwent the study procedures. The MS met feasibility criteria of magnet device placement, creation of patent anastomoses confirmed radiologically, and magnet passage in 100.0% of patients. There were 64 AEs, most were CDC grade I and II, significantly fewer in the MagDI-after-SG group (P < .001). No device-related AEs including anastomotic leakage, bleeding, obstruction, infection, or death. The MagDI-after-SG group experienced 6-month mean weight loss of 8.0 ± 2.5 kg (P < .01), 17.4 ± 5.0% excess weight loss (EWL). The MagDI + SG group had significantly greater weight loss (34.2 ± 1.6 kg, P < .001), 66.2 ± 3.4% EWL. All patients with T2D improved. ConclusionsIn early results of a multicenter study, the incisionless, sutureless Magnet System formed patent, complication-free anastomoses in side-to-side DI with prior or concurrent SG.

A novel self-shaping magnetic compression anastomosis ring for treatment of colonic stenosis.

A novel self-shaping magnetic compression anastomosis ring for treatment of colonic stenosis.

Lessons Learned From the First-In-Human Compassionate Use of Connect-EA™ in Ten Patients With Esophageal Atresia

IntroductionDelayed primary repair of esophageal atresia in patients with high-risk physiologic and anatomic comorbidities remains a daunting challenge with an increased risk for peri-operative morbidity and mortality via conventional repair. The Connect-EA device facilitates the endoscopic creation of a secure esophageal anastomosis. This follow-up study reports our long-term outcomes with the novel esophageal magnetic compression anastomosis (EMCA) Connect-EA device for EA repair, as well as lessons learned from the ten first-in-human cases. We propose an algorithm to maximize the advantages of the device for EA repair. MethodsUnder compassionate use approval, from June 2019 to December 2022, ten patients with prohibitive surgical or medical risk factors underwent attempted EMCA with this device. All patients underwent prior gastrostomy, tracheoesophageal fistula ligation (if necessary), and demonstrated pouch apposition prior to EMCA. ResultsSuccessful device deployment and EMCA formation were achieved in nine patients (90%). Mean time to anastomosis formation was 8 days (range 5–14) and the device was retrieved endoscopically in five (56%) cases. At median follow-up of 22 months (range 4–45), seven patients (78%) are tolerating oral nutrition. Balloon dilations (median 4, range 1–11) were performed either prophylactically for radiographic asymptomatic anastomotic narrowing (n = 7, 78%) or to treat clinically-significant anastomotic narrowing (n = 2, 22%) with no ongoing dilations at 3-month follow up post-repair. ConclusionEMCA with the Connect-EA device is a safe and feasible minimally-invasive alterative for EA repair in high-risk surgical patients. Promising post-operative outcomes warrant further Phase I investigation. Level of EvidenceIV, Case series of novel operative technique without comparison group.

Novel deformable self-assembled magnetic anastomosis ring for endoscopic treatment of colonic stenosis via natural orifice.

Although endoscope-assisted magnetic compression anastomosis has already been reported for colonic anastomosis, there is no report on a single-approach operation using the natural orifice. To design a deformable self-assembled magnetic anastomosis ring (DSAMAR) for colonic anastomosis for use in single-approach operation and evaluate its feasibility and safety through animal experiments. The animal model for colonic stenosis was prepared by partial colonic ligation in eight beagles. The magnetic compression anastomosis of their colonic stricture was performed by endoscopically assisted transanal implantation of the DSAMAR. The anastomotic specimen, obtained 2 wk after the operation, was observed by both the naked eye and a light microscope. The DSAMAR was successfully inserted into the proximal end of colon stenosis through the anus. The DSAMAR of seven dogs was successfully transformed into rings, while that of the remaining dog was removed after the first deformation failed. The rings were successfully retransformed after optimization. All animals underwent colonic anastomosis using the DSAMAR. No device-related or procedure-related adverse events were observed. The colostomy specimens of the experimental dogs were obtained 2 wk after the operation. Both gross and histological observations showed good anastomotic healing. The DSAMAR is a safe and feasible option for the treatment of colon stenosis. Its specific deformation and self-assembly capability maximize the applicability of the minimally invasive treatment.

Long-gap esophageal atresia: management, most frequent complications, and expert recommendations – review of literature

Introduction and aim of the study. Long-gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) is a congenital anomaly in which the gap between both ends of the esophagus exceeds three intervertebral spaces and is an esophageal atresia without air in the abdomen. The defect is both therapeutic and surgical challenge. This review aims at providing an overview of the most recent literature on the effective methods for treatment of LGEA, and the most frequent complications and experts’ recommendations on this subject.&#x0D; Material and methods. The systematic review was based on available data collected using PubMed database and the Google Scholar web search engine.&#x0D; Analysis of the literature. There is no consensus on the ideal technique for surgical treatment of LGEA. There are two possible approaches for opening the thorax – thoracotomy and thoracoscopy. The techniques stimulating esophageal elongation include external and internal traction techniques, magnetic compression anastomosis and intramural botulinum type A toxin injection. Replacement methods are a viable option when it is impossible to preserve the native esophagus. Decellularized matrices seem to be promising in developing an esophageal substitute. Regardless of the surgical approach a common complication of surgical treatment is anastomotic stenosis which requires further surgical interventions.&#x0D; Conclusion. Elongation techniques are effective in approximation of the proximal and distal esophagus. The future lies with tissue engineering and inventing an off-the-shelf esophageal substitute. The centralization of treatment is recommended. After discharge from hospital interdisciplinary outpatient assessment and care is required. Further prospective studies are needed to determine the optimal mode of treatment and prevent complications associated with LGEA.

Magnetic Compression Anastomosis for Post-cholecystectomy Biliary Stricture

Magnetic Compression Anastomosis for Post-cholecystectomy Biliary Stricture

Magnetic Compression Anastomosis for Recanalization of Complete Ureteric Occlusion after Radical Cystoprostatectomy

Magnetic Compression Anastomosis for Recanalization of Complete Ureteric Occlusion after Radical Cystoprostatectomy