Percutaneous Radiologic Gastrostomy: a 12-year Series

Background/aims: Interventional radiologists have played a main role in the technical evolution of gastrostomy, from the first surgical/endoscopical approaches to percutaneous interventional procedures. This study evaluated the results obtained in a 12-year series.

Methods: During the period December 1996 to December 2008, 254 new consecutive gastrostomies and 275 replacement procedures were performed in selected patients. All of the cases were treated by a T-fastener gastropexy and tube placement. The procedures were assessed by analyzing indications, patient selection, duration of the procedures, and mortality.

Results: All 254 first gastrostomies were successful; replacement procedures were also successfully performed. One (0.2%) patient with severe neurologic disorders died after the procedure without signs of procedure-related complications, and seven (1.3%) major complications occurred (four duodenal lesions with peritoneal leakage, two gastric bleedings, and one gastric lesion). Minor complications were easily managed; three tube ruptures were resolved.

Conclusions: This long-term series and follow-up showed that a group of interventional radiologist can effectively provide gastrostomy placement and long-term tube management. Percutaneous gastrostomy is less invasive than other approaches and it satisfies the needs even of high-risk patients.