Table 1. Advantages and disadvantages of the two-sided sponge (TSS).

Advantages

Easy and precise applicability in the abdominal upper gastrointestinal tract (stomach, duodenum)

Possibility of introducing relatively big sponges. Pulling them into the cavity with the sponge-tube is easier than introduction with an endoscope (“back-pack” technique)

Very easy and fast sponge changes

Low risk of separation between sponge and sponge-tube due to the glued and sutured connection. Low risk of dislocation

Sponge diameter can be adapted

Limits

No applicability in the thoracic upper gastrointestinal tract Necessity of reaching an abdominal drain in the cavity

Sponge cannot be adapted in length but only in diameter because of its fixation in the center of the sponge-tube